tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42740837404254738242014-10-03T01:02:46.759-07:00Rantings, Ravings and Red MeatMusings of my mind... most relaxing getaways, insanely succulent recipes and my favorite must-have items!LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-39169542832911261602012-12-31T12:39:00.005-08:002012-12-31T13:05:48.614-08:00My Post Apocalyptic Survival Guide<ol></ol><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1w5MPa7_pAs/UOH0d9ZkpaI/AAAAAAAAAVc/GRKZqRc5NEU/s1600/Zombie_Apocalypse_House_Rules.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="226" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1w5MPa7_pAs/UOH0d9ZkpaI/AAAAAAAAAVc/GRKZqRc5NEU/s320/Zombie_Apocalypse_House_Rules.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><strong>A good pair of boots</strong> to walk the endless wasteland-<br />&nbsp;If you have to go on the run, you will&nbsp;be&nbsp;glad&nbsp;you aren't wearing your flip flops.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0IxE_d424g/UOHulJHSruI/AAAAAAAAAUA/yEig130wAP0/s1600/no+flip+flops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0IxE_d424g/UOHulJHSruI/AAAAAAAAAUA/yEig130wAP0/s1600/no+flip+flops.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>Choose your weapon wisely-</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(from what I have seen, an easily reached side-arm and a long range&nbsp;rifle are both&nbsp; vital.&nbsp;&nbsp; A gun?&nbsp; Hell yea.&nbsp; 10 guns?&nbsp; Even better.&nbsp; And a huge&nbsp;crossbow&nbsp;wouldn't hurt&nbsp;either.</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Knife, brass knuckles and gun all in one!!!&nbsp; The apocalypse gift that keeps on giving!</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hYhIdhcExSg/UOH2bbGbhSI/AAAAAAAAAV4/ZQfUnFvsN4c/s1600/brass+knuckle+gun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hYhIdhcExSg/UOH2bbGbhSI/AAAAAAAAAV4/ZQfUnFvsN4c/s1600/brass+knuckle+gun.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><strong>Some decent grub</strong>- <br />I'm not a fan of cans normally but at times like these, be sure to scavenge any cans and dried foods you can.&nbsp; Anything that has to be cooked will only&nbsp;draw the zombies with the fire and smell of decent food.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Another thing that is not well&nbsp;known is that you can grow a&nbsp;survival&nbsp;sprout garden in a mason jar. You can&nbsp;simply&nbsp;continue to sprout beans and eat the sprouts&nbsp;with no light and little water and&nbsp;they have a surprisingly high nutritional content, much higher than&nbsp;the actual beans or seeds themselves.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9oj97i_yrU/UOHvav-snEI/AAAAAAAAAUM/_uZXL9WP95c/s1600/food+survival.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9oj97i_yrU/UOHvav-snEI/AAAAAAAAAUM/_uZXL9WP95c/s1600/food+survival.jpg" /></a></div><br /><strong>Valuable commodities</strong>- <br />money won't be worth much in the post apocalyptic world but other things&nbsp;will be... like gas,&nbsp;seeds for farming, medicines, luxury food items, maybe&nbsp;even condoms.&nbsp; Not only&nbsp;will people be fearful of leaving their&nbsp;safe shelter for "date nite"&nbsp;but hell, who wants to reproduce in this new world anyways?!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <u>Trauma Pak Quik Clot</u></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KpabCgvyKeE/UOHtM76pRpI/AAAAAAAAATo/8XhzgBd12Xw/s1600/trauma+pak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KpabCgvyKeE/UOHtM76pRpI/AAAAAAAAATo/8XhzgBd12Xw/s1600/trauma+pak.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><strong>VERY high walls for protection-</strong><br />Preferably someplace with a good vantage point to see the walking&nbsp;dead as they&nbsp;enter your zone.&nbsp; A moat around your fortress is a huge plus!!!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S19zD9pFYG0/UOHwjiOJJxI/AAAAAAAAAUc/4tzL741F9bY/s1600/high+walls+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S19zD9pFYG0/UOHwjiOJJxI/AAAAAAAAAUc/4tzL741F9bY/s1600/high+walls+2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><strong>Tarps and Water purification tablets/filtration system-&nbsp;</strong><br />&nbsp;Let's face it, even if you're safe initially, you're going to be on the run soon.&nbsp; Tarps can be used not only as a temporary shelter but also to collect rainwater.&nbsp;&nbsp; It's important to stay hydrated at times like these.&nbsp; You don't want to go through all your tequila on the first day, do you?!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RJlkbYvNBgM/UOHxAYqm55I/AAAAAAAAAUs/NbA7nh41wCs/s1600/tequila+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RJlkbYvNBgM/UOHxAYqm55I/AAAAAAAAAUs/NbA7nh41wCs/s1600/tequila+party.jpg" /></a></div><br /><strong>A bad ass backpack</strong>- <br />with multiple compartments to separate all your crap.&nbsp; Because let's face it, it is&nbsp;going to replace what you used to call a "bureau".<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e3b8y87oQAM/UOHxdSEn7LI/AAAAAAAAAU0/EEOd52XIPm0/s1600/backpack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e3b8y87oQAM/UOHxdSEn7LI/AAAAAAAAAU0/EEOd52XIPm0/s1600/backpack.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><strong>The right tool to help you get stuff done-</strong>&nbsp; <br />And who the hell is going to have room to carry&nbsp;a whole toolbox?!&nbsp; Pick one multifunctional one and find a special place in your badass&nbsp;backpack for it.&nbsp; God knows you're going to need it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xp1VWdiCwaI/UOHx94ase-I/AAAAAAAAAU8/Dql263xzr0I/s1600/tool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xp1VWdiCwaI/UOHx94ase-I/AAAAAAAAAU8/Dql263xzr0I/s1600/tool.jpg" /></a>﻿</div><div align="left"><br /><strong>A good multi-purpose&nbsp;military quality cord-</strong><br />to help with securing equipment &amp; shelters,&nbsp;making restraints, creating fishing nets and anything else you can dream up.</div><div align="left"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DZQD0wQVgY8/UOHzujZ1A6I/AAAAAAAAAVQ/DgB-34fhcFQ/s1600/paracord.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DZQD0wQVgY8/UOHzujZ1A6I/AAAAAAAAAVQ/DgB-34fhcFQ/s1600/paracord.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>And who could leave their pets behind as zombiefood?!&nbsp; </strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">These will keep your pets comfy while&nbsp;they're&nbsp;on the run with you...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AsfXYQA7rdM/UOH3yRQRK7I/AAAAAAAAAWM/ee4CZS81t0I/s1600/camo+gear+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AsfXYQA7rdM/UOH3yRQRK7I/AAAAAAAAAWM/ee4CZS81t0I/s1600/camo+gear+2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PrwJT28-i90/UOH38gtdK8I/AAAAAAAAAWU/6SIF5_7vOcU/s1600/camo+gear+for+pets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PrwJT28-i90/UOH38gtdK8I/AAAAAAAAAWU/6SIF5_7vOcU/s1600/camo+gear+for+pets.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-57692909169378075262012-11-19T10:29:00.000-08:002012-11-20T08:16:55.056-08:00Training for the Kalalau Trail- an Adventure for the Hardcore<div style="text-align: left;">Close your eyes and picture this…. A rugged coastline with multiple cliffs as high as 4000 feet, 5 gorgeous valleys, the scent of crushed guava, sunning pineapples soaking up the heat &amp; the sea breeze, and of course, the sparkling blue ocean below- that could kill you if you missed a step and hurtled to your death.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XuB_1NlWU58/UKp0VhE801I/AAAAAAAAAR4/tQ-EfKjLQfc/s1600/DSC04706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XuB_1NlWU58/UKp0VhE801I/AAAAAAAAAR4/tQ-EfKjLQfc/s320/DSC04706.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Yep, this place is dangerous as hell- and in some sick part of my mind, that makes me even more excited to return.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jLN9KJPwSEQ/UKp1pZVJPyI/AAAAAAAAASA/Ks6DgzMaTmw/s1600/IMGP3355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jLN9KJPwSEQ/UKp1pZVJPyI/AAAAAAAAASA/Ks6DgzMaTmw/s320/IMGP3355.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">My sister and I meet up in Kauai once a year. I know, it sounds nuts and a maybe a bit pretentious but she lives in L.A. and I live in Boston- so what better place to meet up than in paradise? And our mom has become an expert on exchanging our timeshare weeks to get us ladies to Hawaii every year- for that and so many other reasons, we love her.&nbsp; Thanks Mom!&nbsp; An addiction my family shares is our love of the outdoors- we have loved hiking for years. When my sister still lived in Boston, we would even hike the skyline trail at Blue Hills on Easter Morning. I guess you could say it’s something we’ve always enjoyed together- being in the middle of nowhere with only each other. Kauai steps it up a notch- to say the least.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n4XjbvXk1PU/UKp2IYT93zI/AAAAAAAAASI/99UQALV9zao/s1600/IMGP3410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n4XjbvXk1PU/UKp2IYT93zI/AAAAAAAAASI/99UQALV9zao/s320/IMGP3410.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1nyKZTIOi_A/UKp2b6KyCLI/AAAAAAAAASQ/epYNQoef-3U/s1600/IMGP3292.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1nyKZTIOi_A/UKp2b6KyCLI/AAAAAAAAASQ/epYNQoef-3U/s320/IMGP3292.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ok, I admit- it’s winter here now in Boston and I’ve been really ultra lazy. It’s getting so cold that I don’t even run to the liquor store, I drive. Hey, you gotta have your booze- regardless of the weather. Anyways… I started thinking, "Self, you have less than 6 mos. until your return to the Napali Coast… and this time, you’re STAYING right in the middle of the wettest spot on Earth- there’s gonna be some serious adventures!" Yes, they get 450 inches of rain each year here on this side of the island- give or take. The rain is part of the adventure, sometimes it leaves as quick as it arrives- other times, the emergency broadcast system warns everyone to "get to higher ground". Ahhh Kauai… even thinking of the rain makes me smile.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_KSYEZsFkD4/UKp27xoKvxI/AAAAAAAAASc/940OzFH3y2s/s1600/IMGP3339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_KSYEZsFkD4/UKp27xoKvxI/AAAAAAAAASc/940OzFH3y2s/s320/IMGP3339.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Even the rain is beautiful here. Seriously. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tIGWoJ1RRYY/UKqVsZNf1PI/AAAAAAAAATE/unRhNsKtRmo/s1600/IMGP3397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tIGWoJ1RRYY/UKqVsZNf1PI/AAAAAAAAATE/unRhNsKtRmo/s320/IMGP3397.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Ok, so back to my mission- training for the Kalalau trail. 11 Miles one way is a long hike- no matter who you are. I give people credit who don’t even do the whole trail. Hell, at least they came, they saw- they stepped out of their comfort zone. Me- I’m not much of a camper so I’ve never been inclined to camp at the beach at the end. After miles and miles of terrain, this girl wants to head back to the condo with mixed plate take-out, soak in a hot shower and sleep in a BED. Even the 8 mile round trip hike to the falls keeps me beachfront the next day. In fact, my knee is still clicking from my last trip- but isn’t that just the sign of a really good time?! </div><div style="text-align: left;">This time around, I actually belong to a gym. Me- yep, I was always against such establishments but hell, it’s too cold in new england now to do much outdoors. So it’s indoors I go. My mantra has become "Napali Coast, Napali Coast, Napali Coast"- and it works. After a hectic day at work, I’d much rather go home and throw on "Two and a Half Men" reruns but the mantra reminds me of the adventure to come. It magically makes me turn right into the gym parking lot with no arguments in my mind about what I’d rather do. I find it much easier to motivate myself, reminding myself that the more stamina I build, the easier time I will have on the trail. Sometimes, I even catch myself breaking into a huge smile on the treadmill just thinking about it. The people at Planet Fitness probably think I’m a nut job- if only they knew.<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DPS6rxDTnww/UKp5kcVeUjI/AAAAAAAAASs/C4NUHwzl9PU/s1600/IMGP3084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DPS6rxDTnww/UKp5kcVeUjI/AAAAAAAAASs/C4NUHwzl9PU/s320/IMGP3084.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">﻿</div><div style="text-align: left;">I also started taking Schiff Move-Free Triple Strength tablets.&nbsp; They have ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin that work together to strengthen and protect sore joints.&nbsp; The supplement also contains hyaluronic acid and when taken orally, it is absorbed directly into&nbsp;your joints!&nbsp; This stuff came highly recommended from my doctor (who also takes it!)- it works!&nbsp; I have found that the clicking in my knee is subsiding and call me crazy, I even FEEL better.&nbsp; Maybe that's just the 500% of Vitamin D3 that is also in it- who knows!&nbsp; If you like to hike - I strongly suggest taking this!!!!&nbsp; They aren't cheap- but if you can grab them somewhere with a "Buy 1 get 1 Free" deal, they're worth every penny!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PqxVaV9SMHg/UKusqROQbxI/AAAAAAAAATU/eDVtW8pGxUc/s1600/move+free.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PqxVaV9SMHg/UKusqROQbxI/AAAAAAAAATU/eDVtW8pGxUc/s320/move+free.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="left" style="text-align: center;">﻿</div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-52726095820388848742012-04-30T10:41:00.003-07:002012-11-19T11:30:38.698-08:00Cougar or Kitten?So the current trend seems to be for women to date younger men. Guys like that whole "cougar" image when they date an older, experienced woman and those same women like the boost of self esteem &amp; excitement a younger man can provide. Young guys can be really impressed with our knowledge and the old double standard where a woman loses points for sexual experience is wiped away- in fact, it becomes an asset. I once knew a guy named Maurino- a hot young college guy who was 12 yrs younger than me. So hot that he was model material. He was Greek for chrissake. I was at a time in my life when I was fresh out of a long relationship, had relocated to a different state and I admit, he was exactly what I needed at that time in my life. Someone young, fun and handsome to rebound with- friggin’ perfect! However, it turned stale like old toast really fast. It was tough to relate to someone when my day consisted of working 9-6 in a hectic, demanding wall-street paced office and he was going to class with 20-somethings and playing basketball every day. I would say to people "can’t hang out tonite, seeing young guy tonite after his basketball game" and they would beg for a chance to meet his friends. My sister and her friends saw him at the gym and high-fived me when they realized he was my latest conquest. Most of my friends were in long relationships or married- and the idea of me dating someone out of my age group really intrigued them. People even compared me to Demi Moore at the time- but we all know how well her relationship ended. She's probably still doing whippets while en route to her plastic surgeon's office.&nbsp; After awhile, the shallowness of it all overshadowed the initial excitement and when he moved back home to Virginia after college, neither of us kept in touch. I guess we both knew inside that it had run it’s course and had fun while it lasted. You can only play so much minigolf…<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MXCONJkh7J8/T57M09CM4TI/AAAAAAAAARc/ntJKEoJ6Mdk/s1600/cougar+crossing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" oda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MXCONJkh7J8/T57M09CM4TI/AAAAAAAAARc/ntJKEoJ6Mdk/s1600/cougar+crossing.jpg" /></a></div><br />Older guys are a whole different ballgame! Older guys have "been there", "done that"- where younger guys "will do that someday". With older guys you get more of the full package in my opinion- and who doesn’t want the full package?! The downfall is the age difference can backfire if the older person advises too much on life. Being irresponsible (hey, I’m a Saggitarius- it’s not my fault!), the last thing you want to hear is a reminder on what you should be doing or how to do it. If an older guy conjures up images of your dad reminding you to be responsible- the younger woman will rebel and do the exact opposite or completely lose interest. However, unlike young guys- older guys tend to have their lives more "together". You go into their bathrooms and find nice towels vs a dirty beach towel hanging up. They actually have more groceries in their fridge than beer.&nbsp; They know how to hold a job so you aren’t always counseling them like you would with a young guy who has no idea what they want in life (aside from the best basketball score in tonite’s game of course). Older guys know cool stuff you never heard of- older music, films, secret outdoor spots he’s found and wants to share with you - anything to broaden your own horizons. Let’s face it, young guys are exhausting- you can only teach someone so much without feeling like their mother or older sister. Older guys have a career established already and other women they have been with have taught them how NOT to treat women. They’ve already learned the hard way what happens when you blow a woman off. Or not to forget a woman’s pet’s birthday. If they say they are free saturday, they are free Saturday- no ifs ands or buts about it.&nbsp; Women like the chivalry that older men often show and they like the fact that older men tend to have more respect for them.&nbsp; Women like men who know how to be men. He’s not out on the prowl at bars every nite looking for a fresh piece, he just wants to hang with you, the hot younger woman he’s been thinking of all day. Some people lose their lust for life at a certain age but if you’re seeing an older guy who has still "got it", you know in another 20 yrs, he will still be enjoying life as much as you are- time does not slow him down. Older guys also usually have had their kids by now- kids who are old enough that they have kids of their own… leaving plenty of time for &nbsp;YOU. And last but certainly not least... older guys are the best in the sack- because they have done it all and mastered their skills.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6yW_sFCojGA/T57OptDf0pI/AAAAAAAAARk/NK-XSxpxSUk/s1600/older+guys+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" oda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6yW_sFCojGA/T57OptDf0pI/AAAAAAAAARk/NK-XSxpxSUk/s1600/older+guys+3.jpg" /></a></div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-56906568328803927162012-04-29T15:52:00.002-07:002012-11-19T11:31:20.319-08:00Things That Drive Me Nuts (AKA Nice Girls Can Go Postal Too)<strong>People that constantly complain…</strong><br /><br />You know what? A lot of people these days are overworked, underpaid, tired- too many things to list. The only person that can change your life is yourself… and people are tired of you bitching. &nbsp; &nbsp;Complaining endlessly also makes you sound like an ungrateful moron.&nbsp; You have your health,&nbsp;people who love you despite yourself- think about that. &nbsp; Do something positive to change your life… go to the gym, send out some resumes, end your miserable relationship- whatever it takes. Life is too short to settle.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4vbG_8fqWpM/T53FcgqTVlI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/HS4-ZBr7iMk/s1600/complainers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4vbG_8fqWpM/T53FcgqTVlI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/HS4-ZBr7iMk/s1600/complainers.jpg" /></a></div><br /><strong>Bad drivers…</strong><br /><br />Ok, I’m born and raised in Boston- need I say more?! My grandfather was a Boston cop- in the rough section… for 30 yrs. And HE taught me how to drive. Well, I DID take some half-assed ghetto driving class which saved my parents more money on my insurance than the class cost… but my grandfather was the man who has definitely saved my life more than once with the defensive tips he taught me. In Hawaii, people actually stop and allow others to pass on one lane bridges- talk about island courtesy. People live life slower, people are nicer and after a few days there, I find I hate rushing about too. Of course, it’s all good when you’re in Kauia – but when I get back to Boston, I have no choice but to quickly readjust. Those people that cut you off, only to drive like a stoned snail make me absolutely insane. Yes, I admit, I DO drive a bit fast and yes, maybe even aggressive- but don’t pull in front of me, slam on your brakes and throw on your right turn signal. My middle finger can’t help but go up- it has a mind of it’s own.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qFVmz0o63a0/T53FmwqEelI/AAAAAAAAARA/XmzOTNgvYxw/s1600/bad+drivers+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qFVmz0o63a0/T53FmwqEelI/AAAAAAAAARA/XmzOTNgvYxw/s1600/bad+drivers+1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><strong>People that ask me "Now, why do you have a blog"?</strong><br /><br />You know, I’m a big fan of Facebook and other random internet ridiculousness that isn’t necessary for life- but whatever happened to the written word? Ok, this blog, may be internet based but it’s still ME- saying what I feel. Don’t people like to write anymore? And this whole Kindle thing…. I just can’t go there (shudder). &nbsp; I’m sorry, I know it has the internet and everything but I want a REAL book in my hands at the beach. I want to greeeeze up that page with my suntan oil as I turn it. There’s something so soothing, even productive about turning the pages. I’m that chick who packs 6 books in her bag, buys 4 magazines on the way to hawaii and can’t see myself any other way. If there’s a little help yourself "library" in the laundry room of the resort, I always like to leave something for another beach addict to enjoy. "Why do I have a blog you ask?" Because it’s a more productive way to spend my time than wasting it on the Kardashians or the morons on Jersey Shore<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_utOMM62ET8/T53F_RrmvnI/AAAAAAAAARI/uGa2zmqjL84/s1600/blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_utOMM62ET8/T53F_RrmvnI/AAAAAAAAARI/uGa2zmqjL84/s1600/blog.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><strong>People that Tell Me "Ohhhh, you’ll change your mind about wanting kids when you meet the right guy!"</strong><br /><br />Ok- so at 41, I still don’t know myself and what makes me happy?!" ironically enough, the same people who utter that phrase ask about my weekend exploits and their eyes seem to glaze over with envy when I mention late nite rides on a harley, long lazy days at the beach and no one to answer to but myself. If you are a parent, or want to be a parent, good for you. But a comment like that is completely condescending and close minded. I like my friends and relatives kids just fine but could never raise them full time. Even when I was a kid, I tended to hang out with the elders in the group- I didn’t even like kids when I was a kid. I love my life and don’t want to spend the next 18 years of my life with no privacy, less money than I have now (if possible) and my 2 cats are enough responsibility for me. At parties, other women my age are talking about their kids and when they hear I don’t have any and I’m single, they tend to migrate towards the new mom and break out the baby pictures. I’m thinking of putting a picture of Gino in my wallet and show them my one year old "son" the next time someone asks me about my kids. As Chelsea Handler once said, "I would rather sit next to a transgender person and discuss why every one I’ve met smells like a bar in the daytime than listen to people tell me why I want to have childen and just don’t know it yet. I DO know, because I’m me and the feelings are the ones in my head." Everyone’s different ladies, don’t try to convince me to come over to "your side". Children are a TON of work and I give big props to those who have them – but better you than me.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cjI3re-x8Ik/T53GLJptYcI/AAAAAAAAARQ/8kV7iSP0_nA/s1600/no+kids+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cjI3re-x8Ik/T53GLJptYcI/AAAAAAAAARQ/8kV7iSP0_nA/s320/no+kids+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-30109684253981333282012-04-02T09:51:00.001-07:002012-04-29T15:54:02.685-07:00Birds Nests- Easter Fun for the Whole Family!My&nbsp;Nana always loved Easter- it was one of those holidays we always looked forward to when we were kids.&nbsp; Granted, that may have had something to do with the random $5 easter egg we&nbsp;competed to find- but her easter treats are something I will always remember fondly.&nbsp; I make these every year- and they make me think of her and smile.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><u><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bird's Nests</span></span></span></u><u></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><br /></u>* 3 c. mini marshmallows<br />* 3 TBSP unsalted butter<br />* 1/2 tsp vanilla<br />* 4 c. dry chow mein noodles<br />* small candies, jelly beans, m &amp; m's, etc. (i like to use colored "eggs" that look like robins eggs)</div><div style="text-align: left;">* shortening for hands (optional but better than butter- keeps mix from sticking to your hands!)</div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><u><strong>Easy Instructions</strong></u></div><br />1) Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.<br /><br />2) Over low heat, melt the marshmallows and butter in a large saucepan.<br /><br />3) Once melted, stir in the vanilla, then the chow mein noodles.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6FIxd4k30LE/T3nWhe4JhRI/AAAAAAAAAP0/rpa621dUoEg/s1600/noodle+mix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6FIxd4k30LE/T3nWhe4JhRI/AAAAAAAAAP0/rpa621dUoEg/s1600/noodle+mix.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />4) Coat your hands with shortening, (butter doesn't work as well) and have some nearby for re-coating.<br /><br />5) Grab a clump of noodles smaller than a tennis ball and larger than a golf ball. Form into a ball while pressed your thumbs into the middle, forming a nest and place in greased muffin tin, then refrigerate.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--uRk-1S44bQ/T3nWKXlSRII/AAAAAAAAAPs/DERrGmea028/s1600/noodle+muffin+tin+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--uRk-1S44bQ/T3nWKXlSRII/AAAAAAAAAPs/DERrGmea028/s1600/noodle+muffin+tin+pic.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">6) After a few hours, remove them from pan and place on parchment paper for final drying</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DlxDzgRXMfk/T3nTU0TAGhI/AAAAAAAAAPM/Krh1WinkTh0/s1600/step+1-+nests.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DlxDzgRXMfk/T3nTU0TAGhI/AAAAAAAAAPM/Krh1WinkTh0/s320/step+1-+nests.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />7) Allow the nests to cool,&nbsp; then fill with with the candy of your choice....<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CdS3b6ayUFg/T3nXiuIwu0I/AAAAAAAAAP8/EeJ4mQZLI_4/s1600/final+nests.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CdS3b6ayUFg/T3nXiuIwu0I/AAAAAAAAAP8/EeJ4mQZLI_4/s320/final+nests.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />7) Sometimes,&nbsp;she&nbsp;even&nbsp;added a mama bird&nbsp; to watch over her nest (see- those peeps DO have a use!)<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RcmgOE-KL5I/T3nUKVSQXlI/AAAAAAAAAPU/y6RNFHn0KTQ/s1600/step+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RcmgOE-KL5I/T3nUKVSQXlI/AAAAAAAAAPU/y6RNFHn0KTQ/s1600/step+3.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">In memory of Claire Dominick..... </div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-33529669696885291732012-03-20T09:53:00.000-07:002012-03-20T09:53:59.490-07:00So Insanely Delicious, You'll Never Buy a Can Again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><u><strong>Homemade French Onion Soup</strong></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iZDYtu08UHc/T2ivHn9LfFI/AAAAAAAAAO4/TqJtnpHQ2sI/s1600/french+onion+soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iZDYtu08UHc/T2ivHn9LfFI/AAAAAAAAAO4/TqJtnpHQ2sI/s1600/french+onion+soup.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Want to impress your dinner guests, friends or even a random character?&nbsp; Make this an hour or so before your guest(s) arrive, then add the toast and cheese and broil - and manga!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Approximate time from start to finish- 1 hour, 10 min </div><ul><li class="ingredient">6-8 vidalia onions (i used 8- I love onions!)</li><li class="ingredient">1/4 teaspoon of sugar</li><li class="ingredient">olive oil</li><li class="ingredient">2 cloves garlic, minced</li><li class="ingredient">2 containers of beef broth (I don't like canned broth, seems like it has a metallic taste- also, I like to use the lower-sodium beef&nbsp;broth)</li><li class="ingredient">1/2 cup of&nbsp;dry&nbsp;white wine</li><li class="ingredient">1 bay leaf</li><li class="ingredient">1/4 teaspoon of dry thyme</li><li class="ingredient">Salt and pepper</li><li class="ingredient">8 slices of toasted French bread</li><li class="ingredient">1 1/2 cups of grated Swiss Gruyere with a little grated Parmesan cheese (or provolone is good too- but Gruyere puts it over the top!)</li></ul><strong>* </strong>In a large pan, saute the onions in&nbsp;some olive oil on low- to medium heat until browned, but not burned, about 30-40 minutes (or longer).&nbsp; Personally, I like the "slow and low" concept in cooking and keep my flame low and just keep stirring.&nbsp; Once those onions stick, you have to start again- who wants to chance that?!&nbsp; Add the sugar about 10 minutes into the process to help with the caramelization.&nbsp; Pour a glass of wine, turn some tunes on, hang out by the stove and watch over those precious morsels.<br /><br /><b>*</b>&nbsp;When onions are caramelized, add garlic and saute for 1 minute.<br /><br />Your onions should look like this:<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bme5pCdvCRQ/T2i1e3oVIWI/AAAAAAAAAPA/wC6vBTqdKuY/s1600/carmelized+onions+great+shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bme5pCdvCRQ/T2i1e3oVIWI/AAAAAAAAAPA/wC6vBTqdKuY/s1600/carmelized+onions+great+shot.jpg" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;* Add the stock, wine, bay leaf, and thyme. Cover partially and simmer until the flavors are well blended, about 30 minutes.&nbsp; Now add a little salt and pepper and discard the bay leaf .<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b>*</b>&nbsp;To serve you can either use individual oven-proof soup bowls or one large casserole dish.&nbsp; Ladle the soup into the bowls or casserole dish.&nbsp; Cover with the toast and sprinkle with cheese. Put into the broiler for 10 minutes at 350 degrees F, or until the cheese bubbles and is slightly browned. Serve immediately with more wine!&nbsp; </div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-62528679550054807552012-03-19T10:32:00.000-07:002012-03-19T10:32:39.378-07:00Succulent Pet Treats For Our Furry Children<span style="font-size: x-small;"> So I got this recipe in the mail from the vet... looks so simple, I had to share before I actually made it myself.<br /><br />Homemade Pet Treats (for cats AND dogs)<br /><br />½ cup dry or powdered milk<br />½ cup wheat germ<br />1 teaspoon honey<br />¼ lb lean ground beef<br />Mix dry ingredients together, then stir in honey and ground beef until well combined. <br />Form ¾ inch to 1- inch balls and bake on greased cookie sheet at 350 F for 10-15 min. or until cooked through. They might cook fast so check frequently! <br />Cool completely and serve! Break up into larger pieces for tiny cat and dog mouths!<br /><br />Will post pictures when I make - will let you know how they like them!&nbsp; Or if you beat me to it, let me know what your furry guys think of them!</span>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-39336154101564894902012-02-29T13:48:00.003-08:002012-02-29T14:41:48.668-08:00Why We Love The UnderdogOver the years, I have found an insane coincidence with a lot of shows I enjoy- most of them feature an underdog.&nbsp; What is an underdog you ask?&nbsp; It's a person who has a history of screwing up- but there's always the hope that they will rise from the ashes like a phoenix and finally do something right.&nbsp; Sometimes an underdog's shortcomings are self-induced- like Hank Moody from Californication.&nbsp; I've always been a huge fan of David Duchovny and he is the epitome of the underdog in this series.&nbsp; He loves his wife/mother of his daughter but he's&nbsp;far from happy being domesticated- and&nbsp;just can't get his act together professionally, socially&nbsp;or romantically.&nbsp; Sexually, he has no problem- those of you have seen the show know that meeting other women has never been an issue for him.&nbsp;Somehow, despite whatever he does, you can't help but feel sorry for him... he loves his family so much but just can't seem to make that transition from single guy on the prowl to happy husband and dad.&nbsp; Add booze and drugs to the mix and it always leads to his downfall.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rfHopDHMZo4/T06MYOkX-jI/AAAAAAAAAOY/0-Xk93HRRGg/s1600/david+d+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rfHopDHMZo4/T06MYOkX-jI/AAAAAAAAAOY/0-Xk93HRRGg/s1600/david+d+5.jpg" uda="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>We find such characters relatable and even root for them- it always seems they are just about to finally get their act together- then they do something ridiculous at the last minute to completely screw up all the groundwork they have made.&nbsp; Hmmm, I think I may be a bit guilty of this myself- scary.&nbsp; And yet we still throw hope onto the underdog show after show- we see in them the struggle inside ourselves,&nbsp;and the struggle for meaning in a life that isn't always fair or easy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Why do you think LOST was such a huge success?&nbsp; Yes, it was the first time such a show was introduced to mainstream TV- a show that actually made viewers think (gasp!)- but in reality, who were the characters?&nbsp; They were all dysfunctional&nbsp;and had screwed up in some major way- and had a chance to start again on the island and leave their past behind.&nbsp; Or so they thought.&nbsp; As I already mentioned, the underdog always tries to change for the better- but it seems bad choices&nbsp;&amp; fate&nbsp;make it impossible- it's part of who they are.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_CVCYRqAMgg/T06WZrOoKUI/AAAAAAAAAOo/kf2nD1pVaf4/s1600/lost+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_CVCYRqAMgg/T06WZrOoKUI/AAAAAAAAAOo/kf2nD1pVaf4/s1600/lost+2.jpg" uda="true" /></a></div><br />Another&nbsp;one of my faves is&nbsp;the TV show "Breaking Bad".&nbsp;&nbsp;Bryan Cranston plays Walter White,&nbsp;a high school chemistry teacher who is diagnosed with advanced lung cancer at the beginning of the series.&nbsp; With a special needs son and a new baby on the way, he knows he has to make a lot of money FAST- so that his family can support themselves after his demise.&nbsp; Here's a guy who knows he is dying and he only thinks of the family he will leave behind- which endeared him to us in the very first season.&nbsp; He turns to a life of crime, producing and selling methamphetamines with a former student of his Jesse Pinkman and as the series progresses and he actually beats the cancer, he finds the easy money too hard to walk away from.&nbsp; It's a perfect example of someone who does the wrong thing for all the right reasons.&nbsp; But in the end, his actions have consequences and of course, hurt those close to him.&nbsp; He has finally discovered something that he excels at &amp;&nbsp;makes amazing money- but at what cost?&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5zj40FMcGjw/T06UnC27qsI/AAAAAAAAAOg/UZ1oLBm5sRE/s1600/walter+white+awesome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5zj40FMcGjw/T06UnC27qsI/AAAAAAAAAOg/UZ1oLBm5sRE/s1600/walter+white+awesome.jpg" uda="true" /></a></div><br />Another show I am obsessed with is Dexter.&nbsp; Dexter Morgan was orphaned at the age of three after the violent, suspicious murder of his mother and&nbsp;is then adopted by Miami police officer Harry Morgan and his wife.&nbsp; After discovering that young Dexter has been killing neighborhood pets for several years, Harry tells Dexter that he believes the need to kill "got into" him at too early an age, and that he believes Dexter's need will only grow stronger as he gets older. &nbsp;To&nbsp;prevent Dexter from killing innocent people, Harry begins teaching Dexter "The Code".&nbsp;&nbsp; In this code, Dexter's victims must be killers themselves who have killed someone, escaped the justice system by some fluke&nbsp;and will likely do so again if not stopped.&nbsp; Dexter must also always be sure that his target is guilty, and thus, frequently goes to extreme lengths to get undeniable proof of his victim's guilt.&nbsp; Most important, Dexter must never get caught.&nbsp; Like Walter White, Dexter does the wrong thing for the right reasons- trying to save those others that would have been killed had he not intervened.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qgYTizQMBe0/T06crOosR2I/AAAAAAAAAOw/peyVkPnhRGQ/s1600/dexter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qgYTizQMBe0/T06crOosR2I/AAAAAAAAAOw/peyVkPnhRGQ/s1600/dexter.jpg" uda="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />The&nbsp;moral of this blog is that&nbsp;we like to watch shows in which we can sympathize with the characters and their screwups.... and know that we are not alone in this crazy world where anything and everything is possible.&nbsp; I would bet that the writers are Sagittarians, it would certainly explain a lot.&nbsp;&nbsp; : ]</div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-13682108279039755332012-02-21T13:29:00.003-08:002012-02-21T14:04:04.710-08:00A Sagittarian's Adventures at the Gym<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B1jhH2fbye8/T0QKKWmA_UI/AAAAAAAAAOA/D12Oxy8EtEE/s1600/saggitarisu+the+adventurer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" lda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B1jhH2fbye8/T0QKKWmA_UI/AAAAAAAAAOA/D12Oxy8EtEE/s320/saggitarisu+the+adventurer.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />I don't obsess on my horoscope like some- but the characteristics associated with my sign are dead on.&nbsp; So much that it's actually pretty scary.&nbsp; Us Sagittarians have a love of freedom and a disdain for routine- and also tend to be a bit on the irresponsible side... (see, it's not entirely my fault when I screw up!).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sBFVBQCfA0o/T0QKgS2nB9I/AAAAAAAAAOI/WE0NmKzZOxM/s1600/sag+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" lda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sBFVBQCfA0o/T0QKgS2nB9I/AAAAAAAAAOI/WE0NmKzZOxM/s1600/sag+4.jpg" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;In my opinion, this explains why I never joined a gym until I was 40 years old.&nbsp;&nbsp;Structured fitness&nbsp;just seemed entirely too organized for me- (structured anything for that matter- again, it's the Sagittarius in me).&nbsp; &nbsp;I couldn't imagine even stepping foot in a place that people&nbsp;paid to&nbsp;run&nbsp;like hamsters on a wheel.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l87N-oy9Anc/T0QRkTGtM6I/AAAAAAAAAOQ/pg8EmSbPxSU/s1600/hamster+treadmill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" lda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l87N-oy9Anc/T0QRkTGtM6I/AAAAAAAAAOQ/pg8EmSbPxSU/s1600/hamster+treadmill.jpg" /></a></div><br />&nbsp;Me- I have always preferred to get my dose of exercise in the great outdoors surrounded by fresh air.&nbsp; However, astrological sign or not- I have never been a big fan of winter sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;I am&nbsp;incredibly lazy&nbsp;in the winter- I blame it on the lack of suntan oil during those dark months.&nbsp;&nbsp; But us Sagittarians are also very adaptable- which forced me to&nbsp;get off the&nbsp;couch&nbsp;and join Planet Fitness.&nbsp;&nbsp; I strolled in one night after work and&nbsp;went through the rigamarole of filling out the paperwork and giving them my checking acct. info.&nbsp; Normally, I don't like to have money just taken from my account automatically, it's too much commitment for me- but I didn't have a choice in the matter this time.&nbsp; The girl signing me up gave me the whole spiel about how it's not like other gyms and anyone and everyone feels comfortable here- a claim I found&nbsp;difficult to believe.&nbsp; I guess I still thought of gyms as places only musclebound guys and women in tight, perfectly matched workout gear and full makeup&nbsp;hung out.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Turns out I was wrong- at least about this place- looking around there were all shapes and sizes of people and no one even seemed to really pay attention to each other- just their workout at hand.&nbsp;&nbsp; I know some people think of the gym as a social opportunity but not me.&nbsp; I just want to be able to focus on myself while I'm there- crank my ipod and get in the zone.&nbsp; The girl completed my forms and then offered me a compliment "I love your eyebrows, where do you get them done?!"-&nbsp;nice but a bit odd.&nbsp; It's not every day that you get feedback on your brows.&nbsp; Since I came right from work and hadn't been prepared to work out, I left and decided to come back the next day for some hardcore cardio.&nbsp; The next evening, the first person who greeted me was the girl from the&nbsp;night before- and it was obvious she had been discussing me with her coworker.&nbsp; "Hey Linda- this is the girl I was telling you about- with the great eyebrows she does herself!"&nbsp; I laughed and said&nbsp;something along the lines of &nbsp;"Maybe I should have a seminar on it, make a little extra money!" which cracked them both up.&nbsp; Interesting- maybe this place won't be so bad after all- and if&nbsp; I have any questions, I can always&nbsp;flash my eyebrows and get immediate assistance.&nbsp; I get on the treadmill and start doing my thing- with a brand new play list I had made the night before.&nbsp; I never fully realized how vital a kicka$$ play list is at the gym- without it,&nbsp;you just don't have the same motivation level.&nbsp;&nbsp;My play list is&nbsp;a random mix of&nbsp;old and new- including&nbsp;J. Lo tunes from her pre-poser days, &nbsp;Cage the Elephant, Mickey Avalon, Kid Rock, Foo Fighters, OffSpring, Pink, Puddle of Mudd, My Darkest Days and (go figure) old Pat Benatar.&nbsp; I also find that if I throw it on random shuffle- it also gives me a little extra motivation.&nbsp; Now, the only thing left to try is the free pizza they provide- every first Friday of the month.&nbsp; Yes folks, you heard it right- my gym has free pizza one Friday&nbsp;a month.&nbsp; Insanity.&nbsp; I guess they figure it's all about moderation - and hell, whoever goes to the gym on a Friday after a long day at work- deserves a big slice.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RoGkFxtkyW0/T0Pxdk3h4NI/AAAAAAAAANY/trpPBxijXqA/s1600/pizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" lda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RoGkFxtkyW0/T0Pxdk3h4NI/AAAAAAAAANY/trpPBxijXqA/s1600/pizza.jpg" /></a></div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-61308862810432792192012-02-20T09:27:00.000-08:002012-02-21T14:41:21.310-08:00If We Drink Enough of These, Spring Will Come!<div style="text-align: center;"><br /><u><em><strong>Dirty Girl Scout Cookie (Shot)</strong></em></u></div><br /><div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;This one is good for those chilly&nbsp;end-of-winter nights!<br /><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YKfULH4M-V0/T0JybkV8KYI/AAAAAAAAAL8/y-7OiHW15vs/s1600/dirty+girl+scount+cookie+shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YKfULH4M-V0/T0JybkV8KYI/AAAAAAAAAL8/y-7OiHW15vs/s1600/dirty+girl+scount+cookie+shot.jpg" yda="true" /></a></div><br /><div>&nbsp;1/2 oz. Bailey's Irish Cream</div>1/2 oz. Kahlua Coffee Liqueur<br />1/2 oz. Peppermint Schnapps<br /><br /><div>&nbsp;Pour ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice, and shake well. Strain into an old-fashioned cocktail glass, and enjoy!</div><br /><div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><em><strong>Sunset Sangria</strong></em></u><br /></div><div></div><div style="text-align: center;">A lighter, summery version of the Sangria we know and love!<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b_FJ1o0KUMI/T0KBTdzRQQI/AAAAAAAAAMU/WX3uMI4QLzo/s1600/raspberry+sangria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b_FJ1o0KUMI/T0KBTdzRQQI/AAAAAAAAAMU/WX3uMI4QLzo/s1600/raspberry+sangria.jpg" yda="true" /></a></div><br /><div>&nbsp;1 (750 milliliter) bottle rose wine</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 cup pineapple juice</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1/2 cup vodka</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1/4 cup triple sec</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1/2 cup simple syrup</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 peach, sliced</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 lemon, sliced into rounds</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 lime, sliced into rounds</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 (6 ounce) container fresh raspberries</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient"><br /><div><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">Combine wine, pineapple juice, vodka, triple sec, and simple syrup in a large bowl or pitcher. Refrigerate until chilled, about 1 hour. Next, s</span><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">tir the oranges, lemons, limes, and raspberries into the chilled sangria at least 30 minutes before serving. The longer the fruit marinates the better! Serve over ice.</span></div></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;<strong><em><u>Or.... try Watermelon Sangria!</u></em></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V8ThzfY3KWs/T0J2xzu3G2I/AAAAAAAAAME/aZYEidAxQ4g/s1600/watermelon+sangria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V8ThzfY3KWs/T0J2xzu3G2I/AAAAAAAAAME/aZYEidAxQ4g/s1600/watermelon+sangria.jpg" yda="true" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">12 cups cubed watermelon</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 (750 milliliter) bottle dry white wine</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 cup vodka</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1/2 cup triple sec</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1/2 cup simple syrup</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">3 cups cubed seeded watermelon</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 medium lime, quartered</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 orange, cut into wedges</div><div class="plaincharacterwrap ingredient">1 cup fresh blueberries</div><div align="left" style="text-align: center;"><br /><div>&nbsp;﻿<span class="plaincharacterwrap break">Place 9 cups of watermelon cubes in a blender; blend on high until very smooth. Strain juice through a mesh strainer into a large pitcher.&nbsp; Pour the wine, vodka, triple sec, and simple syrup into the pitcher- stir to combine. Mix the remaining 3 cups of watermelon cubes, the lime quarters, orange sections and blueberries into the sangria. Chill for 4 hours before serving.</span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><em><strong>Mojito</strong></em></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div>&nbsp;Who doesn't love a low calorie, ultra refreshing minty lime drink that quenches your thirst?!<br /><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JcFh6N_4BQE/T0J3BV6oz7I/AAAAAAAAAMM/ql-kS69kGl4/s1600/MOJITO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JcFh6N_4BQE/T0J3BV6oz7I/AAAAAAAAAMM/ql-kS69kGl4/s320/MOJITO.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">For EACH drink place into a cocktail shaker:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;">1 sprig of fresh mint leaves from your garden or local market, removed from their stems (don't use dried, but frozen fresh is okay) </div><div style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;">1/2 a fresh lime squeezed<br />1 tablespoon or more of table sugar (start with one and increase to taste as needed later, don't skip the sugar, it's important to the taste. You can substitute <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Splenda</span>, but Equal and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Sweet &amp; Low </span>don't give it the same sweet taste you are looking for).</div><div style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;"><br /><div>&nbsp;Crush these 3 ingredients in the bottom of the shaker using a wooden muddler or whatever works for you.&nbsp; This step is very important- it releases the mint essence from the leaves into the sugar and lime juice!</div></div><br /><div>&nbsp;<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pour 1 or 2 shots (per drink) of white rum (or citrus rum!) over ice.&nbsp; </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cover shaker and shake vigorously and dramatically in front of your guests</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Do not strain the mixture from the shaker, allow the crushed mint leaves to go into the serving glass as well, that's part of the look and taste!</span> <br /><br /><div>&nbsp;<span style="font-family: arial;">Fill the glass with sparking water, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">seltzer</span>, or club soda and stir with a long spoon</span></div><br /><div>&nbsp;<span style="font-family: arial;">Garnish with a fresh mint leave floating on top and serve with a tall drinking straw</span> </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><u><em>BEST Bloody Mary - from our friends at Food.com</em></u></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A little&nbsp;"hair of the dog"&nbsp;when you partied too hard the night before- liquid breakfast!</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kl9Ow0rMwBY/T0KMZjfVz1I/AAAAAAAAAMs/5NjJO9XypHs/s1600/bloody+mary+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kl9Ow0rMwBY/T0KMZjfVz1I/AAAAAAAAAMs/5NjJO9XypHs/s320/bloody+mary+2.jpg" width="278" yda="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="96"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="amount" sizcache="20" sizset="97"><span class="value">3 </span><span class="type">cups</span></span> <span class="name">tomato juice</span></span></span><br /><div class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" sizcache="20" sizset="95"><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="96"><span class="name"></span></span><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="101"><span class="amount" sizcache="20" sizset="102"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="value">3 </span><span class="type">tablespoons lemon juice</span></span></span></span></div><div class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" sizcache="20" sizset="95"><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="101"><span class="amount" sizcache="20" sizset="102"><span class="type"></span></span></span><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="106"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="amount" sizcache="20" sizset="107"><span class="value">3 </span><span class="type">tablespoons</span></span> lime juice</span></span></div><div class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" sizcache="20" sizset="95"><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="106"><span class="name"></span></span><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="111"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="amount" sizcache="20" sizset="112"><span class="value">1 </span><span class="type">tablespoon</span></span> <span class="name">prepared horseradish </span></span></span></div><div class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" sizcache="20" sizset="115"><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="116"><span class="amount" sizcache="20" sizset="117"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="value">1 ½</span> <span class="type">tablespoons worcestershire sauce</span></span></span></span></div><div class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" sizcache="20" sizset="115"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="121"><span class="amount" sizcache="20" sizset="122"><span class="value">¼</span> <span class="type">teaspoon</span></span> </span>garlic powder</span></div><div class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" sizcache="20" sizset="120"><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="126"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="amount" sizcache="20" sizset="127"><span class="value">¾</span> <span class="type">teaspoon</span></span> <span class="name">tabasco sauce</span></span></span></div><div class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" sizcache="20" sizset="120"><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="131"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="amount" sizcache="20" sizset="132"><span class="value">¾</span> <span class="type">teaspoon</span></span> <span class="name">celery salt </span></span></span></div><div class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" sizcache="20" sizset="135"><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="136"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="amount" sizcache="20" sizset="137"><span class="value">½</span> <span class="type">teaspoon</span></span> coarse black pepper</span></span></div><div class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" sizcache="20" sizset="135"><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="136"></span><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="141"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="amount" sizcache="20" sizset="142"><span class="value"><sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">1</span></sup>⁄<sub><span style="font-size: x-small;">3</span></sub></span> <span class="type">cup</span></span> <span class="name">pickle juice</span></span></span></div><div class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" sizcache="20" sizset="135"><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="141"><span class="name"></span></span><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="146"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="amount" sizcache="20" sizset="147"><span class="value">1 </span><span class="type">ounce</span></span>&nbsp;vodka<span class="name">, per drink</span></span></span></div><div class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" sizcache="20" sizset="135"><span class="ingredient" sizcache="20" sizset="146"><span class="name"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">cucumber, celery or whatever garnish you are feeling/have in your fridge</span></span></span></div><div class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" sizcache="20" sizset="135"><br /></div><br /><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In a blender combine the tomato juice, lemon juice, lime juice, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, pickle juice, and hot sauce and process until smooth. Transfer to a nonreactive container and add celery salt and black pepper, to taste. Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled, at least 2 hours and up to overnight. </span></div><div></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When ready to serve, fill each glass with ice. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add 1 ounce of vodka to each glass, then fill the glass with the bloody mary mix. Stir well, and garnish each glass with your favorite veggie, pickle, cucumber or celery.</span><br /><br /></div><div></div><div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><u><em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Skinny Pineapple Martinis</span></em></u></strong><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Arial;">Hey, it's not good to be vitamin C deficient!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z6LC-473uO8/T0KCKS7aIXI/AAAAAAAAAMc/6iujlQaNWOg/s1600/pineapple+martinis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z6LC-473uO8/T0KCKS7aIXI/AAAAAAAAAMc/6iujlQaNWOg/s1600/pineapple+martinis.jpg" yda="true" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div>&nbsp;<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The average Piña Colada has 644 calories (that doesn’t include any fruit garnish or the whipped cream).&nbsp; The average Pineapple Martini only contains 146 calories.&nbsp; And the Pineapple Martini doesn’t have any fat calories at all…the Piña Colada can’t say that even if it doesn’t have the whipped topping!!!</span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div>&nbsp;<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 Ounces Pineapple Rum</span></div></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 Ounces Pineapple Juice (fresh or canned)</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pineapple Wedge (optional)</span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div>&nbsp;<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In a shaker filled with ice add pineapple rum and juice.</span></div></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cover and shake vigorously.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Strain into martini glass.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Garnish with a pineapple wedge and serve.</span><br /><br /><div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Stay tuned- my next venture will be homemade pineapple infused vodka!!!!</span></div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-27920749981677597402012-02-16T10:28:00.000-08:002012-02-16T13:27:11.101-08:00Roasting Chestnuts- FuggedaboutitI am obsessed with cooking &amp; travel shows that showcase the local delicacies.&nbsp; I admit it, I need serious help- and I don't know if even Dr Drew can save me.&nbsp; Some women have crushes on Brad Pitt or Matt Damon- me, I would sell my stuff and run&nbsp;off with&nbsp;Anthony Bourdain without a second thought.&nbsp; I grew up with a father who loved to cook and did most of it- not the typical Italian household.&nbsp; My Mom likes to say that he knew he didn't marry "Betty Crocker" and&nbsp;since he actually enjoyed cooking - she just let him take over!&nbsp; Don't get me wrong- my mom has her 3 things she makes- and makes really well (love you Mom!)- she just doesn't get the same joy out of her culinary creations that we&nbsp;inherited from our Dad.&nbsp; I&nbsp;was always fascinated when he lingerered over the stove- drinking wine while stirring pigskin into his homemade sauce, cooking up dandelion greens and &nbsp;roasting bones in the oven for a stew.&nbsp; I have fond memories of filling jar after jar of cherry peppers stuffed with proscuitto and cheese with my brother and him up at the lake-I think it was "one for me, one for the jar" most of the afternoon.&nbsp; As I got older, I would invite him over for dinner at&nbsp;whatever circus-like apartment I was living in at the moment.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As I served my latest creation, I always&nbsp;watched his face carefully to see what he really thought of my efforts.&nbsp; My dad was a lot of things- a good liar he was not.&nbsp; I was always fascinated by his wine-soaked stories of making homemade bread in Italy, the chestnuts they roasted, ripe figs they picked right off their trees.&nbsp; He taught me how to appreciate the most basic ingredients and create something almost magical with them.&nbsp; These days, my taste varies from Italian to Mexican and even Asian- if my Dad could only see me now!<br /><br />One Italian tradition that my brother and I enjoy year-round is our love of chestnuts.&nbsp; We like to&nbsp;roast them over an open flame and come up with every excuse in the book to have a bonfire.&nbsp; If it's been snowing, he even has been known to snowblow a path to his outdoor "kitchen" and shovel out some standing room for his guests!&nbsp; <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">For those of you who have always been curious about chestnuts, cooking them is actually very easy.</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">First, you must score your chestnuts to allow steam to escape.&nbsp; Basically, take a sharp knife and cut an "X" on the flat side of your chestnut.&nbsp; </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lXgrgg36dsA/Tz1E4zeXuCI/AAAAAAAAALE/NVT4T0jQWmw/s1600/scoring+chestnuts+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lXgrgg36dsA/Tz1E4zeXuCI/AAAAAAAAALE/NVT4T0jQWmw/s1600/scoring+chestnuts+2.jpg" yda="true" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Then, place them in a pan that has had holes drilled through it&nbsp;so the heat can penetrate and cook evenly&nbsp;(we made ours on our own, but I am sure you can buy them premade- God bless the internet!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UIF9yG9KO1E/Tz1IviUhc2I/AAAAAAAAAL0/yu9qvEDcTJE/s1600/CHESTNUT+ROASTING+PAN+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UIF9yG9KO1E/Tz1IviUhc2I/AAAAAAAAAL0/yu9qvEDcTJE/s1600/CHESTNUT+ROASTING+PAN+2.jpg" yda="true" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />Get your fire raging....</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MI-H7qFa4x8/Tz1HZkh3-eI/AAAAAAAAALs/rktvFG02OPA/s1600/BONFIRE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MI-H7qFa4x8/Tz1HZkh3-eI/AAAAAAAAALs/rktvFG02OPA/s320/BONFIRE.jpg" width="239" yda="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or you can use a brick oven like my bro's (he made his himself!).&nbsp;&nbsp; You can also do this stovetop with the same pan, just keep them moving and hang out stoveside so they don't burn!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o-XJ69oQXYA/Tz1FisldNFI/AAAAAAAAALU/euok0snPvug/s1600/CHESTNUTS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o-XJ69oQXYA/Tz1FisldNFI/AAAAAAAAALU/euok0snPvug/s320/CHESTNUTS.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div><br /><div align="center">Now, have some rum punch while you wait....</div><div align="center"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cSjDloUuCV8/Tz1Frv5becI/AAAAAAAAALc/aFIlKN4oTWg/s1600/IMG00214-20110115-1833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cSjDloUuCV8/Tz1Frv5becI/AAAAAAAAALc/aFIlKN4oTWg/s320/IMG00214-20110115-1833.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">And enjoy some good company while they cook!&nbsp; Keep stirring them- you don't want them to burn!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DMukWMs10Lo/Tz1FyepZvSI/AAAAAAAAALk/TeZqB8rb8zw/s1600/FIRESIDE+MEDLEY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DMukWMs10Lo/Tz1FyepZvSI/AAAAAAAAALk/TeZqB8rb8zw/s320/FIRESIDE+MEDLEY.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></a></div><div align="center">﻿</div><div align="center">﻿</div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-27504800307815991512012-02-09T14:31:00.000-08:002012-02-10T07:43:50.235-08:00Planning Your Wake Before You Die<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bRCgBmZBD6k/TzRKdpx-P_I/AAAAAAAAAK4/ndJx5fuJoQM/s1600/hehe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bRCgBmZBD6k/TzRKdpx-P_I/AAAAAAAAAK4/ndJx5fuJoQM/s320/hehe.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />So those of you who know my Mom know that she has a funny yet morbid&nbsp;streak to her (hmmm, I wonder where I get mine...).&nbsp; As odd as it sounds, she likes to joke about her wake and who will attend and when she meets a friend of mine who she really clicks with, she likes to throw them off guard.&nbsp; My friend Jessica found this out last summer.&nbsp; There we were, soaking up the rays at the beach and my mom started up the wake talk, "So Jess, you'll come to my wake, right?"&nbsp; Good ole Jess didn't even bat an eye, "of COURSE Donna, and I'll even bring my husband!".&nbsp; My Mom rubbed her hands together in glee "oh good, 2 more definites!" &nbsp;She has her music planned out and everything- and swears she will haunt me if I don't subject everyone to several hours of Elvis's Greatest Hits and her favorite foods.&nbsp; And did I mention that she&nbsp;expects all our pets there too?!&nbsp;She even has a few people on her list that I am supposed to refuse entry to- but we won't go there today.&nbsp;&nbsp;We laugh about it but hey, it's like your last party- why shouldn't you have what you want?!&nbsp; One day my Mom decided that she really only needed one night vs the standard 2 nites of mourning most&nbsp;deceased receive.&nbsp; It was at this point that I figured "what the hell, I'm jumping on this band wagon too".&nbsp; So I made it known that I expect 2 full nights of mourning- hell, maybe even 3- I want all my out of state friends and family to have a chance to get together and reminisce on the good times we had.&nbsp; My Mom quickly nodded her head in agreement,"Whatever you want honey- I think you deserve a few nights and if I'm still here, we will get Holo Holo charters in Kauai to take everyone out to spread your ashes on each of those 3 days".&nbsp;&nbsp; Like Mother, like daughter.&nbsp;&nbsp; Love you Mom!LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-2231908893323243632012-02-03T09:21:00.000-08:002012-02-16T11:40:01.980-08:0010 of My Favorite & FREE Android AppsA lot of these apps are also free if you have an iphone- or so I have been told.<br /><br />10. Shazam<br />If you hear a song and don't know what it is (or for the life of you, can't remember who sings it)—Shazam to the rescue! This is an app I keep easily accessible on my main screen.&nbsp; Hit the Shazam button, hold it as close as you can to the speakers or even your TV.&nbsp; Within a few seconds, the app will tell you the title, artist, and sometimes even find the album art, too.&nbsp;&nbsp; It keeps in it what it calls a "tagged file" so when you are ready to download from Itunes, it's right at your fingertips.<br /><br />9. Angry Birds Rio<br />What's better than a game you can play anywhere you have to wait for something?!<br />&nbsp;In Angry Birds Rio, the original Angry Birds are kidnapped and taken to Rio de Janeiro, where they eventually escape their captors and set out to to save their friends, Blu and Jewel – two rare macaws and the stars of the hit motion picture, Rio. Angry Birds Rio combines the fun of the original game with twists based on the film.<br /><br />8. Brightest Flashlight<br />Another one that's a must for your main screen.&nbsp; This&nbsp;app even sounds serious as it fires up- and I have used it several times in the woods, in complete darkness while hunting for logs for our bonfires.&nbsp; There are also apps for colored flashlights which I admit I also installed, but this is the one I find I use the most.<br /><br />7. Wheres My Droid <strong>-</strong> If you're anything like me, you've "lost" your phone so&nbsp;many times only to find it tucked away in a jacket pocket or some other obvious—or not so obvious—location.&nbsp; This app&nbsp;makes your phone ring at maximum volume or vibrate when the phone receives a text message containing a specified phrase, such as "Where's my Droid?". &nbsp;The app can also tell you the phone's location but your GPS must be enabled.<br /><br />6. Mobile Q (for Netflix)<br />This app is great for those of us who have dvd delivery only from Netflix (no streaming).&nbsp; Since I don't have streaming as part of my Netflix package, their regular Android app won't allow me access.&nbsp; Apparently, they don't have a way to not allow streaming access on your Android, so their standard app is not so user friendly for those of us who just want to add a movie to our dvd or blu ray que.&nbsp; Are you ever out and about and someone tells you that you MUST see a certain movie?&nbsp; If you're anything&nbsp;like me, you'll forget all about it by the time you get home.&nbsp; Now with Mobile Q, you can search for a movie, add to your que and it's linked to the Netflix site instantaneously for updating.&nbsp; <br /><br />5. Skype Mobile<br />I have to admit, I just downloaded this one and have yet to use it.&nbsp; But hey, if I can skype with my sister on my phone- this is going to be in my top 5 soon.&nbsp; Anyone who has used this already, I would love some feedback.<br /><br />4. Out of Milk<br />I'm definitely an old-school list maker when it comes to my grocery list but I thought I'd try this one.&nbsp; This app&nbsp;allows you to scan products directly into your Shopping Lists or Pantry Lists using a Barcode Scanner which is pretty cool.&nbsp;&nbsp;It&nbsp;also&nbsp;features a&nbsp;To-Do List that lets you add and keep track of any other items on&nbsp;a daily list.&nbsp; Say you have a shopping list for a specific recipe that you want to share with a friend- you can email or text message the list right to them!&nbsp; For those married folk out there, you can even email the To-Do list to your spouse!&nbsp; <br /><br />3. Google Sky Map<br />This app uses your phone's orientation tools to give you an accurate representation of the stars and planets on your screen. Point your phone at the sky, and it will outline the constellations that are visible.&nbsp; It's a great way to find out if that light in the sky is&nbsp;a UFO or not.<br /><br />2. Pandora<br />Pandora Radio is free personalized radio that only plays music you’ll love. Just start with the name of one of your favorite artists or songs and Pandora will create a custom "station" that plays similar music.&nbsp; If you're somewhere that you need some tunes and don't have your ipod sound system with you, this saves the day!<br /><br />1. Surfline<br />Ok, ok, maybe a lot less people will use this app than the others listed but I can't wait for my next trip to Hawaii to use this one.&nbsp; You can get the surf report, tide info and even the weather forecast for various beaches on here, which is great when you're an avid boogie boarder like myself.&nbsp; This is a must-have for every beach lover out there.LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-38850407909825133092012-02-02T08:28:00.000-08:002012-02-16T11:40:26.358-08:00Saving the World- One Pet's Life at A TimeWhen my longtime feline friend Wonka died of renal failure, my vet&nbsp;broke the news to me that diet had played a huge part in his disease.&nbsp; For 19 yrs, I thought&nbsp;keeping him well fed was&nbsp;enough- but apparently the pet food companies have been lying to us for years about what exactly is&nbsp;in their products- and animals are getting sick and dying.&nbsp; Familiar&nbsp;supermarket brands and even a lot of pet store brands are full of so many preservatives, additives,&nbsp;gluten and meal- not real meat.&nbsp; If the first ingredient in your pet food is meal- that is very very bad.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">This is worth the read if you love your pets like I do....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.naturalnews.com/012647.html"><span style="color: orange;">http://www.naturalnews.com/012647.html</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><u>Halo dry cat food (also available for dogs!)</u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SNhoJ2ocU1A/Tyq006_1PzI/AAAAAAAAAKo/BKoSzcCHox4/s1600/halo+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SNhoJ2ocU1A/Tyq006_1PzI/AAAAAAAAAKo/BKoSzcCHox4/s320/halo+3.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Since my cats have been eating Halo (well, mainly Penelope-at one years old, Halo is all Gino has ever had- thank christ), no one has thrown up and they actually enjoy the taste of this more natural dry food.<br /><br />Halo's Sensitive Cat Formula of Spot's Stew is an all natural dry cat food that does not have any rendered ("recycled") meat or meat meals, which are legally unfit for human consumption.&nbsp; It contains USA-grown vegetables and fruits, natural preservatives, and vitamins and minerals. Halo Spot's Stew contains no corn or wheat, which makes it an ideal pet food for cats with food allergies like my girl Penelope (explains her throwing up in the past!).&nbsp; Spot's Stew includes probiotics, also known as live bacteria to help restore bacterial balance in the intestines. It also includes prebiotics which are special forms of fiber that stimulate growth and function of beneficial bacteria in the intestine. <br /><br />If you sign up for their email newsletter, you can even score coupons and free cans of wet food for joining their site!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.halopets.com/"><span style="color: orange;">http://www.halopets.com/</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">For the love of God, buy yourself a little less wine like I do and spend the extra money on your furry friends.&nbsp; They deserve it.</div><div style="text-align: center;">﻿<br />In Memory Of Wonka<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2cW2Yl0OjYY/TyrmAMwbLQI/AAAAAAAAAKw/FMYK949ha3c/s1600/wonka.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2cW2Yl0OjYY/TyrmAMwbLQI/AAAAAAAAAKw/FMYK949ha3c/s1600/wonka.jpg" /></a></div></div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-20711873179761111692012-02-02T07:02:00.000-08:002012-02-16T11:40:45.231-08:00Spicy Thai Coconut Chicken Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wUQpJrpxUrM/TyqlZZckcmI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/GdbTv4cJrZc/s1600/spicy-thai-coconut-chicken-soup-ck-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wUQpJrpxUrM/TyqlZZckcmI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/GdbTv4cJrZc/s1600/spicy-thai-coconut-chicken-soup-ck-l.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div><strong>Yield:</strong> <span itemprop="yield">Serves 4 (serving size: about 1 1/3 cups)</span></div><span itemprop="yield"></span><br /><div><strong>Total:</strong> <time datetime="PT0H32M" itemprop="total">32 Minutes <br /><br /></div><div></div><div><strong><u>Ingredients</u></strong><br /><strong><u></u></strong></div><div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">2 teaspoons</span> <span itemprop="name">canola oil</span> </div><div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span itemprop="amount">1 cup</span> <span itemprop="name">sliced mushrooms</span> <span itemprop="preparation"></span></div><div><span itemprop="amount">1/2 cup</span> <span itemprop="name">chopped red bell pepper</span> <span itemprop="preparation"></span></div><div><span itemprop="amount">4 teaspoons</span> <span itemprop="name">minced peeled fresh ginger</span> <span itemprop="preparation"></span></div><div><span itemprop="amount">4 </span><span itemprop="name">garlic cloves, minced</span> <span itemprop="preparation"></span></div><div><span itemprop="amount">1 </span><span itemprop="name">(3-inch) stalk lemongrass, halved lengthwise</span> <span itemprop="preparation"></span></div><div><span itemprop="amount">2 teaspoons</span> <span itemprop="name">fresh chile paste</span></div><div><span itemprop="name"><span itemprop="amount">3 cups</span> <span itemprop="name" sizcache="19191" sizset="0">chicken stock </span></span></div><div><span itemprop="amount">1 1/4 cups</span> <span itemprop="name">light coconut milk</span> <span itemprop="preparation"></span></div><div><span itemprop="amount">4 teaspoons</span> <span itemprop="name">fish sauce</span> <span itemprop="preparation"></span></div><div><span itemprop="amount">1 tablespoon</span> <span itemprop="name">sugar</span> <span itemprop="preparation"></span></div><div><span itemprop="amount">2 cups</span> <span itemprop="name">shredded cooked chicken breast (about 8 ounces)</span> <span itemprop="preparation"></span></div><div><span itemprop="amount">1/2 cup</span> <span itemprop="name">green onion strips</span> <span itemprop="preparation"></span></div><div><span itemprop="amount">3 tablespoons</span> <span itemprop="name">chopped fresh cilantro</span> <span itemprop="preparation"></span></div><div><span itemprop="amount">2 tablespoons</span> <span itemprop="name">fresh lime juice</span> </div><div><br /></div>Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add mushrooms and the next 4 ingredients (through lemongrass); cook 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add chile paste; cook 1 minute. Add Chicken Stock, coconut milk, fish sauce, and sugar; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10 minutes. Add chicken to pan; cook 1 minute or until thoroughly heated. Discard lemongrass. Top with onions, cilantro, and juice &amp; anything else you wish.&nbsp; I love this recipe!LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-56392521038844744482012-02-01T11:52:00.000-08:002012-02-16T11:41:04.227-08:0010 Dark & Deranged Movies To Keep You Up At NightThose of you who have Netflix memberships have probably noticed the ridiculous amount of horror movies on their site.&nbsp; I've never been a lover of comedy, aside from the rare exception- my secret addiction is horror movies- the more obscure the better.&nbsp; Those movies that some might dismiss as too deranged or too gory, those are the ones I added to the top of my que!&nbsp; Now some of these may not be your typical bloody horror flix- but they were so weirdly thought provoking that they&nbsp;made my list.&nbsp; My close friends know it takes a lot to disturb me- but some of these really got me thinking... especially those that could feasibly happen.&nbsp; Those are the ones that made me lose a little sleep but hell, I can sleep when I'm dead.....<br /><br />(potential spoiler alert- be warned)<br /><br />10. <em><strong>Welcome to the Jungle</strong></em><br /><br />This is shot like a documentary- which in itself I found intriguing right from the start.&nbsp; We start out with&nbsp;two old friends who haven't seen each other in awhile and&nbsp;two guys they are involved with.&nbsp; Right from the start, you realize the two couples are almost completely opposite from each other and this will present a problem.&nbsp; They journey to the New Guinea wilderness to try and find Michael D Rockefeller, who disappeared in 1961.&nbsp; As they get deeper and deeper into the jungle, partying commences, opinions clash, fights ensue and they split up- which turns out to be a fatal mistake.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The movie is shown through the eyes of couple 1 (on camera 1)&nbsp;- then through the eyes of couple 2 (on camera 2)- it adds a&nbsp;kind of realism.&nbsp; &nbsp;I'd rate the gore and violence&nbsp;factor as a 7 on this one and towards the end,&nbsp;&nbsp;my heart was racing because I just KNEW it wasn't going to end well.&nbsp;&nbsp;This movie&nbsp;made you really think about how different cultures can be and that when you're in the jungle, it's every man or woman for themselves.&nbsp; I really really liked this one- and the end was great, even if somewhat anticipated by those horror aficionados like myself.&nbsp; The reviews I read for this one were pretty much all negative but I am so glad I gave it a shot.&nbsp; I've always been one to be open minded, check something out&nbsp;and form my own opinion regardless of what I have heard or read.&nbsp; This is definitely one I want to buy and add to my blu ray library- the scenery was fantastic.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-atm53pd4ShQ/TyhyjWAB7jI/AAAAAAAAAIo/chGybAx8HVM/s1600/welcome+to+the+jungle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-atm53pd4ShQ/TyhyjWAB7jI/AAAAAAAAAIo/chGybAx8HVM/s1600/welcome+to+the+jungle.jpg" /></a></div><br />9. <strong><em>Wrong Turn 4</em></strong><br /><br />Normally I'm not a big fan of sequels- they always seem to fall short of the original.&nbsp; Wrong Turn 4 is actually a prequel which tries to explain the beginning of the hillbilly mutants.&nbsp; In a way, you almost feel bad for them being locked up &amp; shut away the way they were- maybe just a little.&nbsp; The usual Wrong Turn ingredients are present here- friends meet up, start&nbsp;partying, friends disappear, friends die, friends rescue each other- but not for long.&nbsp;&nbsp; The scene in the kitchen was probably one of the better scenes in all of the Wrong Turn movies- I admit, even I was a little sickened.&nbsp; But hey, it's just a movie- suck it up and watch it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dyImYx_OMt0/TyhytEi3UpI/AAAAAAAAAIw/BC6MYinD81g/s1600/wrong+turn+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dyImYx_OMt0/TyhytEi3UpI/AAAAAAAAAIw/BC6MYinD81g/s1600/wrong+turn+4.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />8.&nbsp; <strong><em>Shrooms</em></strong><br /><br />3 couples go to Ireland in search of the elusive magic mushroom and some quality&nbsp;time together in the forest.&nbsp; Right from the start, I was impressed with Lindsay Haun- she was very believable in her role and kept me glued to her plight the whole movie.&nbsp;&nbsp;It&nbsp;doesn't take long until a creepy story is being told at the campfire which might be more than just a story... people start disappearing, silhouettes move through the woods and the creepy story starts to melt into reality along with the effect of the mushrooms.&nbsp; No one could distinguish between what was real and what was a hallucination- so it kept&nbsp;me guessing as well.&nbsp; Not the typical horror movie- more of a freak-out that I liked more than I expected to-&nbsp;even the&nbsp;effects were pretty cool.&nbsp; But maybe that was because of the talking cow and the ending I should have seen coming but didn't.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9_WDiyjGMVY/Tyhyw2G9E_I/AAAAAAAAAI4/M6D9HiUcBIM/s1600/shrooms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9_WDiyjGMVY/Tyhyw2G9E_I/AAAAAAAAAI4/M6D9HiUcBIM/s1600/shrooms.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />7. <strong><em>Red State</em></strong><br /><br />Three&nbsp;middle american teens answer a craiglist adult ad- and they get more than they bargained for.&nbsp; The scariest thing about this movie is this really can happen in today's world- where more people meet online than ever before.&nbsp; You quickly realize the woman they go to meet is just not right somehow and that safety isn't always guaranteed even in numbers.&nbsp; I don't want to ruin this one for you but let's just say things go bad quickly and the people they meet have sinister intentions.&nbsp; It's also shows you that what the government releases as truths as not always what really happens.&nbsp; Watch it- and think hard about this one.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qPCSn0uOdg0/Tyhy0DxypRI/AAAAAAAAAJA/DddivaApSJg/s1600/Red+State+Movie+Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qPCSn0uOdg0/Tyhy0DxypRI/AAAAAAAAAJA/DddivaApSJg/s320/Red+State+Movie+Poster.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><br /><br />6. <strong><em>Hostel III</em></strong><br /><br />In the world of torture porn, Hostel has always stood head and shoulders above the rest.&nbsp; I didn't expect much from Hostel III but was curious as to where they would go with this one.&nbsp; Unlike the other two Hostel movies, this one was not set in a different country but in Las Vegas of all places.&nbsp; In my opinion, this is what made it even more disturbing- that this can happen right under our noses in America.&nbsp; Four friends embark on a secret trip to Vegas for a bachelor party and encounter two escorts who promise them a private&nbsp;party&nbsp;off the strip.&nbsp; Again, it's the old "the rich can buy anything"&nbsp;adage and of course it's Vegas- so it involves gambling.&nbsp;&nbsp; Well, gambling with a killer edge to it.&nbsp; Hostel III had the usual graphic violence but the first death scene really blew me away.&nbsp; I just didn't expect what I was about to see- despite my familiarity with the Hostel series.&nbsp; The nonchalant way the "doctor" went about his tasks in front of the audience was overwhelming.&nbsp; Movies like this make me wonder if organizations like The Elite Hunting Club really do exist.&nbsp; People disappear every day and you wonder if situations like this become their fate.&nbsp; I was truly shocked by the ending- I didn't expect it to develop the way it did and the last two characters to be so completely changed from the beginning.&nbsp; But I didn't blame them- I probably would have done the same thing at that point.&nbsp; Yea,&nbsp;it's&nbsp;different than&nbsp;the first 2 movies but&nbsp;that's what made this sequel more watchable in my eyes.&nbsp; Get it- let me know what you think.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FyQmbcVS7Ms/Tyhy7kw7_uI/AAAAAAAAAJI/rrcNQyx-VsA/s1600/hostel+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FyQmbcVS7Ms/Tyhy7kw7_uI/AAAAAAAAAJI/rrcNQyx-VsA/s1600/hostel+3.jpg" /></a></div><br />5.&nbsp; <strong><em>The Perfect Host</em></strong><br /><br />Red or white wine?!<br /><br />This movie actually made me a fan of David Hyde Pierce.&nbsp; I was never a huge fan of Frasier- to be honest, I thought it sucked.&nbsp; I was pleasantly surprised to discover that he can play someone creepy and pull it off.&nbsp;&nbsp; A con on the run goes through a mailbox and&nbsp;decides to pretend he is a friend of the owner - to give himself somewhere to hide out and buy some time.&nbsp; What happens next is a perfect example of how the hunter can quickly have the tables turned on him and be the hunted.&nbsp; As the movie progresses, you realize that the con couldn't have picked a worse house to hole up at- and you wonder if he'll make it out alive.&nbsp; Of course, the wine he is offered is drugged (never accept a glass of liquid from a stranger- hello!!!) and the party scene is bizarre.&nbsp; David Hyde Pierce's character tests the con in certain situations, then their chess game shows him that he is a man to reckon with- a man who has balls.&nbsp; I never in a million years expected the movie to play out as it did.&nbsp; They say every psycho has two sides- one for the general public and their "real" life and one for their private persona only seen by their victims- and you see both sides of his here.&nbsp; And I won't ruin it for you- but when you gain an insight into his "real" life, it's not at all what you would have expected.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W4sIZjqV_dU/Tyhy-V2JnGI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/_dkc5yvhkfY/s1600/the+perfect+host.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W4sIZjqV_dU/Tyhy-V2JnGI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/_dkc5yvhkfY/s1600/the+perfect+host.jpg" /></a></div><br />4.&nbsp; <em><strong>Black Water</strong></em><br /><br />This movie puts those ridiculous Lake Placid movies to shame.&nbsp; If you like movies with killer animals, this is a must-see.&nbsp; A couple and the woman's sister are on vacation in Australian and&nbsp;on a whim,&nbsp;rent a boat&nbsp;to&nbsp;go fishing. &nbsp;The part that really stuck with me for hours after the movie was the relationship between the 2 sisters and how it ended.&nbsp; All I kept thinking was "what would I do?&nbsp; How would i save my sister".&nbsp;&nbsp; The raw emotion that was shown in this movie actually brought tears to my eyes and I really was rooting for the sisters to escape unharmed from the mangrove swamp.&nbsp; The movie has little blood and gore, more psychological angst and for a low budget independent movie, it was incredibly realistic.&nbsp; The scenes in the dark with the lightning and the crocodile lurking below were the scariest- sometimes what you don't see scares you the most.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aV-aYjSf5OY/TyhzBDw98xI/AAAAAAAAAJY/AYMB5P5b6zM/s1600/black+water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aV-aYjSf5OY/TyhzBDw98xI/AAAAAAAAAJY/AYMB5P5b6zM/s1600/black+water.jpg" /></a></div><br />3.&nbsp; <em><strong>Wrecked</strong></em><br /><br />A man wakes up trapped in a car- with no recollection of who he is or how he got there.&nbsp; The only company he has is the dead guy beside him and he has no idea who the hell&nbsp;he is either.&nbsp; As he attempts to piece together the details of how this happened, he has flashbacks (or are they hallucinations?) which offer a glimmer into the truth behind the crash.&nbsp; I'm a big fan of Adrian Brody so maybe I'm a bit biased but I&nbsp;really liked him in this survival story.&nbsp; As it becomes apparent that no one is coming to rescue him, his new ordeal is now escaping the car which he is trapped in.&nbsp; As he escapes, you wonder if maybe he was better off inside the car- as the wilderness now surrounds him with all it's dangers.&nbsp; The story definitely dragged a bit and would have been better if it was a bit shorter but the makeup/injuries were extremely well done.&nbsp; As the pieces of the story fit together, it made a lot of sense and the whole thing with the dog really was what kept him going in my opinion.&nbsp; Another good one to&nbsp;check out&nbsp;on blu ray- very scenic.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zCKipHvwlGs/TyhzECFxYEI/AAAAAAAAAJg/FNWA7c_8ZMo/s1600/wrecked-movie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zCKipHvwlGs/TyhzECFxYEI/AAAAAAAAAJg/FNWA7c_8ZMo/s320/wrecked-movie.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />2. <strong><em>The Reef</em></strong><br /><br />I have had an obsession with shark movies since I was a child.&nbsp; Maybe I shouldn't have watched "Jaws" so young but in any case, I find myself both fascinated and terrified of them at the same time.&nbsp; These days, shark movies have come a long way- they actually show the shark- or at least a damn good computerized version of one.&nbsp; I am someone who would fight to the end but after seeing this movie I thought "would it have been better just to die from drowning or go through the ordeal these poor people did- to no avail?"&nbsp; The characters couldn't avoid being hunted and in the open water, there is absolutely nowhere to hide.&nbsp; I can't imagine witnessing the violent death of a friend,&nbsp;temporarily burying your&nbsp;emotions in order to move on-while&nbsp;knowing that you are probably next.&nbsp; It was pretty easy to pick out who would survive- and that was really the one I was rooting for the whole time.&nbsp; If you have a blu ray player, this is another one that's a must on blu ray- you actually feel like you're right beside them in the ocean.&nbsp;&nbsp;I usually watch movies in the dark for maximum impact but at&nbsp;one point, I actually found myself turning the light on- it somehow made me feel safer.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bohZlaF_7lQ/TyhzHkM1f5I/AAAAAAAAAJo/jsR6T1MLOyc/s1600/the+reef.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bohZlaF_7lQ/TyhzHkM1f5I/AAAAAAAAAJo/jsR6T1MLOyc/s1600/the+reef.jpg" /></a></div><br />1. <strong><em>The Grey</em></strong><br /><br />I recently saw this one in the theatre but felt it should still be on this list.&nbsp; An oil drilling team in Alaska is watched over by Liam Neeson's character who is a sniper hired to protect the drilling team from hungry wolves.&nbsp; Their plane crashes and quickly they realize they are out in the wilderness with no supplies and being hunted by the same wolves.&nbsp; After ten minutes of watching the extreme cold on the screen, I actually started shivering myself.&nbsp; Was it the movie or the chill in the theatre?&nbsp; Maybe a bit of both.&nbsp; Their fight to stay warm and survive while steadily losing members of their group to the wolves was enough to make normal people give up hope but not Liam Neeson.&nbsp; He banded them together and&nbsp;like the Irish tough guy&nbsp;image he is known for, he gave them the courage and know-how to survive.&nbsp; The ending when he strapped broken nip bottles to his hand and got ready for his final confrontation left you wondering- but in the end, it was all he could do.&nbsp; Anyone that knows Liam Neeson's characters knows if he's gonna go down, he's going down fighting.&nbsp; I liked it and felt it was worth the $7 discounted ticket I scored.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Irs9g9qzJMA/TyhzKs2TABI/AAAAAAAAAJw/p7rYPeLsyMs/s1600/the+grey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Irs9g9qzJMA/TyhzKs2TABI/AAAAAAAAAJw/p7rYPeLsyMs/s1600/the+grey.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-84052485094121274592012-01-30T15:04:00.000-08:002012-02-16T11:41:33.311-08:00Off the Beaten Path- part 2So after multiple flights (with the same airline- only one baggage fee that way!), we finally landed in Kauai.&nbsp; The first time&nbsp;I stepped foot here, i found it the most magical place I had ever been.&nbsp; There's just something about traveling a full day and finally landing somewhere that&nbsp;has a whole 6 hours time difference that just screams VACATION!!!&nbsp; For those adventurous folk like myself, a trip to Kauai is not the same without a hike on the Na pali Coast.&nbsp; The road trip to the North shore is an event in itself- driving through tree tunnels, roadside waterfalls, cruising through the hippie town of Hanalei - that would be reason enough for a road trip.&nbsp; However, once you arrive in this area, the mountain scenery is enough to leave you breathless.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Monk seal taking a snooze</div><br /><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xjTmBsksexk/TygxsZnN6BI/AAAAAAAAAGo/qwdP42G44rk/s1600/MONK+SEAL-+KAUAI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xjTmBsksexk/TygxsZnN6BI/AAAAAAAAAGo/qwdP42G44rk/s320/MONK+SEAL-+KAUAI.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><u><em><strong>Tunnels AKA Makua Beach</strong></em></u></div><br />Tunnels beach is a snorkelers heaven with a beautiful beach and a&nbsp;massive hook-shaped&nbsp;reef that protects snorkelers from the outer surf.&nbsp; And yes, this is where the famous surfer&nbsp;Bethany Hamilton lost her arm to a tiger shark-which always lurks in the back of my mind when I'm snorkeling- but she was also about 1/4 mile out when the attack occurred- well past the reef.&nbsp; The reef here is so big, you can actually see it from space- which is insane.<br /><br /><div></div><div style="text-align: center;">We like to bring our mixed plates here and have lunch after we snorkel- and on this day, this random beach dog followed us from his house down to the beach.&nbsp; I love this shot.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iDYVoPUVQKM/Tycgf5Ami0I/AAAAAAAAAEg/d3tgwRO6hEk/s1600/tunnels+dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iDYVoPUVQKM/Tycgf5Ami0I/AAAAAAAAAEg/d3tgwRO6hEk/s320/tunnels+dog.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>We call this my drunken vanna pose... "would you like to buy a vowel!?&nbsp; Me and my fave sister- not the most glamorous shot of us but it doesn't matter at Tunnels... in fact, I don't think we wore makeup all week, it was quite liberating to just roll out of bed and go somewhere for the day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rSy-wr4Uzfg/TycgpF1k8LI/AAAAAAAAAEo/qx4uuzmVD28/s1600/leonz+vanna+white+pose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rSy-wr4Uzfg/TycgpF1k8LI/AAAAAAAAAEo/qx4uuzmVD28/s320/leonz+vanna+white+pose.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A shot&nbsp;without the Tunnels dog</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_rAQyeJVUtY/TychBnx5ZbI/AAAAAAAAAEw/TNO2TB9DBqI/s1600/tunnels+plain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_rAQyeJVUtY/TychBnx5ZbI/AAAAAAAAAEw/TNO2TB9DBqI/s320/tunnels+plain.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So there we are snorkeling in the peaceful waters and all of a sudden, this random needle-like fish appears... then 5 more... then we are surrounded and decided it might be a good idea to take a break on shore...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m_C5XN5RUJ0/TychLhMwT1I/AAAAAAAAAE4/yv1yjvO-xUk/s1600/random+weird+needle+fish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m_C5XN5RUJ0/TychLhMwT1I/AAAAAAAAAE4/yv1yjvO-xUk/s320/random+weird+needle+fish.jpg" width="320" /></a>&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div></div><div style="text-align: center;">And another ... weird huh?&nbsp; These are the only pics we managed to get of these before heading to shore for lunch </div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UujRbnTzNj8/TychQ72M3aI/AAAAAAAAAFA/as-nypV-jMc/s1600/random+needlefish+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UujRbnTzNj8/TychQ72M3aI/AAAAAAAAAFA/as-nypV-jMc/s320/random+needlefish+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">check out the big guy- he's totally scoping me out </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zGJMOp7Maq4/TychYj4fjxI/AAAAAAAAAFI/q8mgH9-R1Wo/s1600/blue+fish+tunnels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zGJMOp7Maq4/TychYj4fjxI/AAAAAAAAAFI/q8mgH9-R1Wo/s320/blue+fish+tunnels.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9vvk1tSCOVo/Tycha7aJtyI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/YXaYHJgIHqs/s1600/fish+at+tunnels+with+coral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9vvk1tSCOVo/Tycha7aJtyI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/YXaYHJgIHqs/s320/fish+at+tunnels+with+coral.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">﻿My mom and sis enjoying some watermelon on our way back to our villa- just another gorgeous day in paradise!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aEsh59QQceU/TyhKGoWp95I/AAAAAAAAAIg/CoutsbkMKHo/s1600/mom+and+leonz+with+watermelon" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aEsh59QQceU/TyhKGoWp95I/AAAAAAAAAIg/CoutsbkMKHo/s320/mom+and+leonz+with+watermelon" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><u><em>&nbsp;<strong>Na pali Coast</strong></em></u></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">﻿The most strenuous hike I have ever taken was also the most breathtaking.&nbsp; For our next journey, my sister and I hopped in the car at 6am and headed to the North shore - destination- the Kalalau Trail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mXgJBlThwxs/TygUpMNG-hI/AAAAAAAAAFY/VRqDnkDgBkc/s1600/kalalua+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mXgJBlThwxs/TygUpMNG-hI/AAAAAAAAAFY/VRqDnkDgBkc/s320/kalalua+sign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div></div><div style="text-align: center;">What I had heard and read about this hike didn't even come close to the experience.&nbsp; They say a picture says a thousand words, I'll let a few of mine speak for themselves.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jg6qiB3s_H4/TygaJRN_D-I/AAAAAAAAAFg/GSdbYwzcpYg/s1600/2ND+NAPALI+SHOT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jg6qiB3s_H4/TygaJRN_D-I/AAAAAAAAAFg/GSdbYwzcpYg/s320/2ND+NAPALI+SHOT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zLtdjxiYMa4/Tygal2mXOcI/AAAAAAAAAFo/egqY5Y26pPk/s1600/222677_10150603914530265_683370264_18208938_6917463_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zLtdjxiYMa4/Tygal2mXOcI/AAAAAAAAAFo/egqY5Y26pPk/s320/222677_10150603914530265_683370264_18208938_6917463_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pVXT29jNmBI/TygavQ5H33I/AAAAAAAAAFw/Ro5epiwyE74/s1600/223367_10150603916790265_683370264_18208996_4450983_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pVXT29jNmBI/TygavQ5H33I/AAAAAAAAAFw/Ro5epiwyE74/s320/223367_10150603916790265_683370264_18208996_4450983_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;Bamboo forest...&nbsp; if only you could hear the noise they made in the wind</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IZxYEdsZZXQ/TygbABE_L1I/AAAAAAAAAF4/8TSPfn4wcU8/s1600/BAMBOO+FOREST.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IZxYEdsZZXQ/TygbABE_L1I/AAAAAAAAAF4/8TSPfn4wcU8/s320/BAMBOO+FOREST.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dKDPe7gt9J0/TygbHXFwvWI/AAAAAAAAAGA/VZcuTJrAAUQ/s1600/BEST+NAPALI+COAST+SHOT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dKDPe7gt9J0/TygbHXFwvWI/AAAAAAAAAGA/VZcuTJrAAUQ/s320/BEST+NAPALI+COAST+SHOT.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">crazy tree roots</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SGZNKfJq3wo/TyguuEQG9eI/AAAAAAAAAGI/K-4sMvTmfhk/s1600/TREE+ROOTS+&amp;+WATERVIEW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SGZNKfJq3wo/TyguuEQG9eI/AAAAAAAAAGI/K-4sMvTmfhk/s320/TREE+ROOTS+&amp;+WATERVIEW.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-th6N9pVfzGo/TygvGuzKH0I/AAAAAAAAAGY/a9xT_raASSU/s1600/LEAF+WITH+WATER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-th6N9pVfzGo/TygvGuzKH0I/AAAAAAAAAGY/a9xT_raASSU/s320/LEAF+WITH+WATER.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />Trail is getting rocky....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zoyr5-ydLjE/Tygu3aBuZ4I/AAAAAAAAAGQ/aEPntPCFApg/s1600/ROCKY+KALALAU+TRAIL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zoyr5-ydLjE/Tygu3aBuZ4I/AAAAAAAAAGQ/aEPntPCFApg/s320/ROCKY+KALALAU+TRAIL.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Me taking a little rest&nbsp;at the waterfall</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Qp__4q3wO4/TygvNDi5NiI/AAAAAAAAAGg/qcpsw0jP6WE/s1600/me+at+waterfall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Qp__4q3wO4/TygvNDi5NiI/AAAAAAAAAGg/qcpsw0jP6WE/s320/me+at+waterfall.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">﻿</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><strong><em><u>The best boat cruise in Kauai.... is with&nbsp;Holo Holo Charters</u></em></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div></div>The next time we hit the Na pali Coast, we booked through Holo Holo charters for their sunset cruise.&nbsp;&nbsp; According to the website, it wasn't just for couples- so we decided to check it out.&nbsp; Since Andrea and I had hiked the coast the year before, we decided to see it from the water this time with our Mom.&nbsp; I imagined seeing the cliffs from a distance was a whole different world than hiking them- and as you can see, the experience from afar was totally different.&nbsp; This was one of our fave parts of our vacation and you're about to see why.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">About to board- they collected our shoes and we had to leave them behind until we returned- awesome.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UMHzEvq4V24/TyhFbgEgYsI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/hpPn6_quLCE/s1600/IMGP3245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UMHzEvq4V24/TyhFbgEgYsI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/hpPn6_quLCE/s320/IMGP3245.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Inside of the catamaran</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2p5p1owzgVc/TyhBjzI7eVI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/WPwAiy6U2Rc/s1600/225980_10150601550190265_683370264_18176779_3754265_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2p5p1owzgVc/TyhBjzI7eVI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/WPwAiy6U2Rc/s320/225980_10150601550190265_683370264_18176779_3754265_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Keeping Kauai green with my Heineken</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TqLYoPsN1mg/TyhBWXDwIkI/AAAAAAAAAHI/bdBenckM-Us/s1600/225467_10150601419590265_683370264_18175746_1006781_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TqLYoPsN1mg/TyhBWXDwIkI/AAAAAAAAAHI/bdBenckM-Us/s320/225467_10150601419590265_683370264_18175746_1006781_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As you can see, my sister was really&nbsp;enjoying the ride out to the cliffs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NotbLnRjw9Y/TyhA3uiu8lI/AAAAAAAAAHA/36EqPXuPmew/s1600/222758_10150601447925265_683370264_18175902_6495638_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NotbLnRjw9Y/TyhA3uiu8lI/AAAAAAAAAHA/36EqPXuPmew/s320/222758_10150601447925265_683370264_18175902_6495638_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Me also enjoying the ride- obviously there were free drinks involved</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ChOqwqi3SZQ/TyhD-Tj0eSI/AAAAAAAAAIA/gmxl0A0cO2w/s1600/DSC04719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ChOqwqi3SZQ/TyhD-Tj0eSI/AAAAAAAAAIA/gmxl0A0cO2w/s320/DSC04719.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pilot whale- not the best shot but pretty cool how close we were</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-didYm0BV_r4/TyhAryZoLPI/AAAAAAAAAG4/4DkHpMZ6EjQ/s1600/221815_10150601542150265_683370264_18176721_4018476_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-didYm0BV_r4/TyhAryZoLPI/AAAAAAAAAG4/4DkHpMZ6EjQ/s320/221815_10150601542150265_683370264_18176721_4018476_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ld0osbrg2cg/TyhCpPCvxZI/AAAAAAAAAHg/JsiAwnq_wW4/s1600/227968_10150604858365265_683370264_18224021_6105243_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ld0osbrg2cg/TyhCpPCvxZI/AAAAAAAAAHg/JsiAwnq_wW4/s320/227968_10150604858365265_683370264_18224021_6105243_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Paradise</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0BCftZTZsMs/TyhC6FjHDhI/AAAAAAAAAHo/_9SRKks7Gn0/s1600/DSC04709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0BCftZTZsMs/TyhC6FjHDhI/AAAAAAAAAHo/_9SRKks7Gn0/s320/DSC04709.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--z4cC5axT8A/TyhDFMWqL2I/AAAAAAAAAHw/YZBs7oDI6I0/s1600/DSC04716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--z4cC5axT8A/TyhDFMWqL2I/AAAAAAAAAHw/YZBs7oDI6I0/s320/DSC04716.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cPcGgOC3Z9c/TyhGZ9riZtI/AAAAAAAAAIY/k8HEuGYDvcI/s1600/IMGP3279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cPcGgOC3Z9c/TyhGZ9riZtI/AAAAAAAAAIY/k8HEuGYDvcI/s320/IMGP3279.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">﻿</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sisters together after&nbsp;too much time apart&nbsp; :)</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ngvn0nN4p2Y/TyhCN1uNptI/AAAAAAAAAHY/ZeruKQo4fIE/s1600/226909_10150604861750265_683370264_18224076_3892472_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ngvn0nN4p2Y/TyhCN1uNptI/AAAAAAAAAHY/ZeruKQo4fIE/s320/226909_10150604861750265_683370264_18224076_3892472_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Andrea and our Mom enjoying the view</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PH4CSzB8YJg/TyhEVk6-HYI/AAAAAAAAAII/YRJ7gc6Ni-4/s1600/IMGP3291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PH4CSzB8YJg/TyhEVk6-HYI/AAAAAAAAAII/YRJ7gc6Ni-4/s320/IMGP3291.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The lady behind us definitely didn't take her Bonine- she looks like she hates us.&nbsp;</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sun is setting, champagne in hand and&nbsp;starting our journey back to the Holo Holo&nbsp;dock ... sigh.</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-36-6Z7D7jaY/TyhDdlNUkKI/AAAAAAAAAH4/sjoRCNH32kA/s1600/leonz+on+holo+holo+cruise+w+lady+and+bucket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-36-6Z7D7jaY/TyhDdlNUkKI/AAAAAAAAAH4/sjoRCNH32kA/s320/leonz+on+holo+holo+cruise+w+lady+and+bucket.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com0Kauai, Hawaii, USA22.0964396 -159.526123821.9117366 -159.77489079999998 22.2811426 -159.2773568tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-58571372164624923862012-01-30T13:30:00.000-08:002012-02-16T11:42:18.378-08:00Off the Beaten PathSo those of you who know me, know I'm a bit obsessed when it comes to vacations.&nbsp; Not that I'm one who goes by any schedule- more like I just want to see as much as i can and have a long list of things that intrigue me.&nbsp; At least every other year, my mom, sister and I go to Hawaii and I always hear "there's so many other beaches, why travel so far?!"&nbsp; Well, if you have to ask that- you haven't experienced Hawaii the way we do.&nbsp;&nbsp;The last&nbsp;acquaintance who uttered that ridiculous statement then admitted to me that she stayed at a 5 star resort with her uppity parents and when i asked her what they did, she told me they took a hotel shuttle van to see waimea canyon and ate in the resort restaurant&nbsp;every nite.&nbsp; I couldn't help but be horrified- "That's it?!"&nbsp; Although I work for a bus company, the idea of organized transportation on a vacation just floors me.&nbsp; Isn't the best part when you get "lost" in your rental car and end up god knows where seeing something you never expected to see?!&nbsp; Then the same week, a customer of mine from my real job made me shake my head yet again.&nbsp; She had just gotten back from Kauai with her family after asking me to give her the low-down on all the places she should see- and let me tell you, I gave her&nbsp;the insider's "must-see" list.&nbsp; So she calls me up to book some buses with me and of course I ask "How was your vaca?!&nbsp; What did you think of Tunnels?!"&nbsp; I almost went into cardiac arrest when she uttered the words "Well, we stayed on the North Shore and pretty much just stayed at the resort.&nbsp; The food there was pretty good too".&nbsp;&nbsp; To each his own, but if you are going to stay at your resort and not venture out- you might as well just&nbsp;go to the cape.&nbsp; Why take a 12 hour flight just to sit at a ritzy resort all day and not see the REAL Hawaii?!&nbsp; Ok, ok- I'm a bit opinionated but I'm a Sagittarius- and adventure is my middle name.&nbsp; Jesus, even my Mom (who admits she isn't the biggest adventurer) throws caution to the wind when she's on vacation with me.&nbsp; In fact, I'm pretty much like a tour guide minus the fee.&nbsp; Despite our time-sharing ownership that can get us the fanciest 5 star resort stay, we tend to lean towards something 3 star or so- anything decent and laid back with an apartment style set up.&nbsp; Yes, a hotel room is not enough for us- we need a living room, private lanai and of course 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms so we have some space.&nbsp; Some people don't want to cook on vacation- not me- that is something I look forward to!&nbsp; In fact, usually by the&nbsp;middle of the week, the girls at the local Big Save in Lihue, know my preferences and&nbsp;yell out a&nbsp;friendly "aloha!" to me when&nbsp;I enter the store.&nbsp; I want to sample the local fruit and vegetables, grill up some fish- experience it like the locals do.&nbsp; Anyone can get a "safe"&nbsp;salad or a burger at the Sheraton- me, it makes me shudder.&nbsp; My sister and I love our mixed plates, this is our fave spot and ironically enough, last time our condo was about 10 min from here.&nbsp; Not sure why it says "drive in" since it is walk-in service only but oddities like that are part of the charm.&nbsp; Place doesn't look like much but it has the best mixed plate combos in town.&nbsp; And yes, we take our mixed plates to Tunnels beach (technically Makua Beach, but those in the know call it Tunnels), sit down and enjoy it right in the sand in our wet suits with a big heineken by our side.&nbsp; It's the only way to live.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5T7Efqh1yA/TybrKENg02I/AAAAAAAAAEI/K9bUkQOHm5c/s1600/kcl+bbq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5T7Efqh1yA/TybrKENg02I/AAAAAAAAAEI/K9bUkQOHm5c/s320/kcl+bbq.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Our chicken and beef mixed plate combo- all this for less than $10!!!</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp; For those of you who don't know, a mixed plate is basically meat of some kind, 2 scoops of white rice and 1 scoop of macaroni salad with REAL mayo.&nbsp; Friggin insane.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a2iHF9GmyKI/Tybr3f86HcI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/IHwRGfWqgjo/s1600/IMG00533-20110506-1225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a2iHF9GmyKI/Tybr3f86HcI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/IHwRGfWqgjo/s320/IMG00533-20110506-1225.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Ok, I got off track a bit when the mixed plate came into mind- but who can blame me?!&nbsp; Well, that's what part 2 is for- read on....LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com1Kauai, Hawaii, USA22.0964396 -159.526123821.9117366 -159.77489079999998 22.2811426 -159.2773568tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-32431151235069630652012-01-05T08:53:00.000-08:002012-02-16T11:41:53.934-08:00Truffle Salt... there is a GodSo i finally broke down and ordered myself some truffle salt... what the hell- happy new year to me!&nbsp; After indulging in truffle oil, i figured this was the next logical step in my truffle madness.&nbsp; After some research, i learned that a lot of salts are as low as 2% truffle and ideally you want to purchase something close to 10% if you can afford it.&nbsp; Of course, i got right on Amazon to explore my options and ended up purchasing a jar of Savini Tartufi black truffle salt- with 6% truffle.&nbsp; This stuff is imported from Pisa and those of you who know me, know that when I'm interested in something- i exhaust all avenues when it comes to learning about it.&nbsp; Yes, I'm a bit obsessive, i get that from my dad.&nbsp;&nbsp; :]&nbsp;&nbsp; So upon googling the Savini company, i discovered that there&nbsp;were 3 generations of truffle hunters in this family and came upon the most shocking photo.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v0K_ECZcKXE/TwXRAQ7DcrI/AAAAAAAAACA/uedKucxOuI4/s1600/savini+truffle+guy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v0K_ECZcKXE/TwXRAQ7DcrI/AAAAAAAAACA/uedKucxOuI4/s1600/savini+truffle+guy.jpg" /></a></div><br />This is the&nbsp;largest white truffle found in decades, by Luciano Savini and his dog Rocco.&nbsp; It weighed 1.5 kilos (3.3 lbs) and was bought for a record price of $330,000 in 2007 by Macau casino owner Stanley Ho.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VlNKEHc_mq8/TwXUVHw_Z5I/AAAAAAAAACY/4KcfCQ6z-aA/s1600/savini+dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VlNKEHc_mq8/TwXUVHw_Z5I/AAAAAAAAACY/4KcfCQ6z-aA/s1600/savini+dog.jpg" /></a></div><br />They say you either love truffle salt or you don't- no in between.&nbsp; I definitely agree with that, it's a musty, earthy scent and taste- but to me- the word that best describes it is succulent.&nbsp; It livens up anything- especially those bland dishes like rice, eggs, unsalted popcorn etc.&nbsp; After the gym last night, i was hesitant to eat anything heavy so i made some brussel sprouts and garnished them with a bit of truffle salt.&nbsp; Insanely delicious!&nbsp; Now that i have this new found addiction, I find myself&nbsp;daydreaming.... "i wonder how much a truffle hunting dog costs?"&nbsp; and "is this guy in need of another truffle hunter and do they offer room and board?!"&nbsp; I ordered my Savini Tartufi salt for a total cost of $25 - shipping and all.&nbsp; You may say "$25 for salt?!"&nbsp; Well, don't knock it until you have tried it!&nbsp; I don't gamble or smoke cigarettes so if i want to indulge with a gourmet purchase once in awhile- I figure i work hard and deserve it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is the box it came in- triple wrapped in paper, bubble wrap etc.&nbsp; The minute i opened the box, all i could smell was truffle.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B62ZXTzP0No/TwXU48eb6RI/AAAAAAAAACw/qJocXmSYdfQ/s1600/truffle+box+opened.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B62ZXTzP0No/TwXU48eb6RI/AAAAAAAAACw/qJocXmSYdfQ/s320/truffle+box+opened.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oV_Afad5jmk/TwXVC2xzIXI/AAAAAAAAAC8/QOPUTrWnV4o/s1600/truffle+salt+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oV_Afad5jmk/TwXVC2xzIXI/AAAAAAAAAC8/QOPUTrWnV4o/s320/truffle+salt+close+up.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">﻿</div><div style="text-align: left;">﻿Try it and let me know what you think.&nbsp; At my house, it has been worked into&nbsp;the monthly budget!&nbsp; </div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-49019545692532611472011-12-30T12:21:00.000-08:002012-02-03T07:31:40.303-08:00Kids Vs Cats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>It's not that&nbsp;I don't like kids- in fact,&nbsp;I like them a lot when they belong to other people.&nbsp; <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_97caL1m_i8/Tv4JYztu76I/AAAAAAAAABQ/y4p8ds9QDWM/s1600/sarcastic+smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_97caL1m_i8/Tv4JYztu76I/AAAAAAAAABQ/y4p8ds9QDWM/s1600/sarcastic+smile.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">﻿</div><div align="left">But I know how happy people's kids make them- and that makes me happy.&nbsp;&nbsp; But if&nbsp;I have to hear all about little Joey's first tooth and how so and so doesn't like peas, then you have to listen to my b.s. about my furry kids.&nbsp; It's only fair....&nbsp; :)</div><div align="left"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Little Gino</div><div align="left"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CBqb3IRlvII/Tv4RlSprRFI/AAAAAAAAABc/IEbvqtRKfkM/s1600/gino.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CBqb3IRlvII/Tv4RlSprRFI/AAAAAAAAABc/IEbvqtRKfkM/s320/gino.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Baby Gino and Penelope (she kind of reminds me of a werewolf in this pic, right?!)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BFFQA3A_CIM/Tv4R8qlJxeI/AAAAAAAAABo/hRtsyjUZDYY/s1600/gino+and+penelope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BFFQA3A_CIM/Tv4R8qlJxeI/AAAAAAAAABo/hRtsyjUZDYY/s320/gino+and+penelope.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="left"><br /></div><div align="left">I have always had pets- even when growing up.&nbsp; Of course, my one dog ran away to a "farm" (you know there's TONS of farms in boston- but that's a story for another day (you're safe for now Mom!).&nbsp; Once we&nbsp;came&nbsp;home unexpectedly with&nbsp;our first cat after a dinner with my parents friends&nbsp;though,&nbsp;I was hooked.&nbsp; I'm no animal snob-&nbsp;I love them all- but the freedom a cat offers is so different than a dog.&nbsp; You can go away, leave some food and water out and no harm, no foul.&nbsp; My first pet of my own was Wonka who I got from a friend of a friend when&nbsp;I was 20 and in college. &nbsp;I always joked that if Wonka could talk- a lot of people would have to pay him off (you know who you are!).&nbsp; After 19 yrs together, he was diagnosed with chronic renal failure.&nbsp; For the next 2 months, I did what&nbsp;I could to keep him comfortable and happy.&nbsp; A friend with a heart of gold even gave me what she had left of costly medication that hadn't saved her beloved feline.&nbsp; I should have seen this as a sign but instead, I was just extremely grateful for her generosity.&nbsp; When he died, my house wasn't the same- even&nbsp;Penelope, my 13 yrs old part Maine Coon cat was distraught.&nbsp; For several weeks she zombified around the house, crying, looking behind the stove- breaking my heart.&nbsp; I relayed this info to a friend (who I refer to as Gino's god mom- since she brought him into my life)- and next thing you know, Gino Pepperoni Leone was part of the clan.&nbsp; As young as he is (he just turned one), he has become a huge part of the household... or maybe the household has become a part of him.&nbsp; I tend to think the latter is the truest.&nbsp; With pets, there are no pretensions, no familial obligation, no game playing- if they don't want to come lie down by your side, they just won't.&nbsp; Our pets see us at our worst, our laziest, in tragedy or triumph- yet they are our constant, the ones who are there for it all.&nbsp; They don't judge, they don't criticize and love you unconditionally like only an animal can.&nbsp; As I sit here writing this, Gino is taking a nap while pressed up behind me on the chair I'm sitting in.&nbsp; You know, because this is apparently the only chair in this place- but&nbsp;I consider it an honor.&nbsp; Those of you with your own furry mute friends get it- life just wouldn't be the same without them.<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bAkY5l1kcUg/Tv4SB04OTnI/AAAAAAAAAB0/uaHPeSXhyD8/s1600/bloggin+gino.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bAkY5l1kcUg/Tv4SB04OTnI/AAAAAAAAAB0/uaHPeSXhyD8/s320/bloggin+gino.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div align="left"></div>LeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4274083740425473824.post-6616720556451916982011-12-21T15:24:00.000-08:002012-02-03T07:33:12.971-08:00What's so great about winter?!Those of you who know me know that i am definitely a warm weather person.&nbsp; A day in the sun slathered in coconut oil with a few&nbsp;drinks and&nbsp;scandal mags by my side- and i could sit&nbsp;my a$$&nbsp;there&nbsp;until the sun goes down.&nbsp; I am usually one of the first people at the beach and one of the last- my beach association on Winnipesaukee is&nbsp;practically family.&nbsp; This year, my last swim was in October at Good Harbor Beach with a random Gloucester fisherman who strutted by my lounge chair and said "this might be the last time, let's go".&nbsp; And off we went, me and this strange fisherman into the sea.&nbsp; Fast forward&nbsp;to the here and now... it's the end of December and it's a balmy 50 degrees.&nbsp; Yet some people are seeking out the man made snow up north- as crazy it is seems.&nbsp; These people that actually ENJOY the snow and ice and frolic in it-&nbsp;I find that impossible to relate to.&nbsp; In fact, it sends a absolute shudder down my spine- or was that hoarded coconut oil&nbsp; my skin just threw up at the thought of the frigid cold?!&nbsp;&nbsp; My idea of a nice winter night is sitting in a steaming jacuzzi, beverage in hand and shaking my head in disbelief at those people careening down the mountain.&nbsp; But to each his own&nbsp;I guess.&nbsp; In honor of the much dreaded winter storms that may get here eventually, here are some of my fave things that give me hope until spring.<br /><br />* truffle oil (because if you're going to stay out of the cold and cook at home, you deserve it!)<br />* bonfires (roasted chestnuts and limoncello with the heat from a raging fire on your face- thumbs up)<br />* jasmine vanilla body lotion from Bath &amp; Body works (so creamy with a slight bit of greeeeze and that scent is just insane)<br />* cake vodka (just cuz)<br />* my slow cooker (nothing beats throwing a bunch of stuff in one pot to cook all day and then going off on your merry way- it's kinda like a butler who doesn't speak but your dinner is ready when you get home- awesome)<br />* downloading a bunch of new music off itunes (music always cheers me up!)<br />* friends that put up with me endlessly bitching about how much&nbsp;I hate winter<br /><br />That's all for nowLeonzSezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02050091233213505421noreply@blogger.com1